Canada: Unionized grain elevator workers in Vancouver, B.C., plan to strike starting Sept. 24 to demand contract improvements

Unionized grain elevator workers affiliated with the Grain Workers Union Local 333 have announced a strike starting 07:00 Sept. 24 in the Port of Vancouver, British Columbia, as part of a contract dispute. The length of the strike is unclear and will likely depend on the success of negotiations.

Disruptions to grain exports through the Port of Vancouver are likely over the coming days; given the port's importance for grain exports throughout Western Canada and the ongoing harvest season, disruptions to rail traffic throughout Western Canada are possible. Localized protests near the port may occur but will probably be peaceful. Lingering disruptions to grain shipments are likely even after the strike as lifted as operators work through the backlog of shipments.