Board directs Maritime workers’ union to rescind strike notice

The Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) has determined that the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Local 514’s declaration of strike action against DP World (Canada) Inc. is in contravention of the Canada Labour Code.

CIRB held a case management conference July 7 to hear complaints between the B.C. Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA) and ILWU Local 514.

CIRB found that the union failed to bargain in good faith when it conducted a strike vote amongst employees of only one member employer of the BCMEA and issued a strike notice based on that strike vote. CIRB directed the union to rescind the strike notice of July 5 and advise members that it is rescinded.

Furthermore, CIRB found ILWU Local 514’s Nanaimo dispatch proposal was illegal because it consists of a receding horizon in bargaining and amounts to a failure to bargain in good faith. Therefore, the board directed the union to withdraw its proposal.

As a result of the CIRB decision, BCMEA has rescinded the industry-wide lockout notice.

BCMEA said in a release that it is disappointed these steps needed to be taken to ensure the stability of Canada’s West Coast ports but is pleased with the outcomes of CIRB’s decision.

The CIRB hearing to address outstanding DP World (Canada) Inc. manning proposal of the union, which BCMEA has alleged to also be illegal, is scheduled to continue August 6, 7, 8, and 9.