In a new pressure tactic episode of a prolonged waterfront labour conflict, the SCFP 375 union representing 1,200 longshoremen at the Port of Montreal today announced an “unlimited strike” starting Thursday at ll a.m. at the two container terminals operated by Termont unless an agreement is reached beforehand. This follows a 24-hour work stoppage at almost all port facilities on Sunday.
As was the case of a three-day work stoppage earlier this month, the job action will affect the Viau and Maisonneuve terminals that employ some 300 dockers and account for about 40% of container cargo at Canada’s second largest container port after Vancouver. Since October 10, the Montreal dockers have refused to work overtime.
At a meeting held on Sunday, the union’s members also agreed to make special contributions to fellow members financially impacted by the new strike.
The union and the Maritime Employers Association remain deadlocked in negotiations for replacing a collective agreement which expired on Dec. 31, 2023. Key outstanding issues are work scheduling and work-life balance.
Canadian Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon recently proposed appointing a special, new mediator for the parties to resume negotiations without a lockout or strike for 90 days – but that offer was turned down by both parties.
(Photo of Termont Viau terminal)
