Canada: Unionized dock workers call for strike at ports of Vancouver and Prince Rupert, BC, from Nov. 4 to denounce port automation

Dockworkers affiliated with the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Local 514 plan to conduct an indefinite strike at the ports of Vancouver and Prince Rupert, BC, from 08:00 Nov. 4. Workers are pressing the British Columbia Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA) to refrain from automating port facilities. In return, the BCMEA has threatened to lock out ILWU 514 workers from ports from Nov. 4. Approximately 700 unionized dockworkers will participate in the strike. The planned duration of the walkout is unclear, but it will likely depend on the success of further negotiations.

Unless averted, disruptions to maritime freight shipping on the West Coast are almost certain for the duration of the strike. Given that Vancouver and Prince Rupert are Canada's only deep-water freight ports on the Pacific Ocean, disruptions to businesses across Western Canada are likely. Striking workers could stage demonstrations near the ports. Authorities will likely deploy a heightened security presence to monitor any such gatherings. Localized transport and business disruptions are possible near any protests that may materialize.