BCMEA Announces Defensive Lockout Amid Escalating Strike Threat from ILWU Local 514

01 Nov BCMEA Announces Defensive Lockout Amid Escalating Strike Threat from ILWU Local 514

In response to a second industry-wide strike notice from ILWU Local 514, the British Columbia Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA) has announced a coastwide lockout set to begin on Monday, November 4, at around 9:00 a.m. PT. This decision aims to ensure a safe wind-down of operations in anticipation of potential escalation from ILWU Local 514, including a full withdrawal of labor without prior notice.

The lockout will halt all cargo operations of BCMEA member companies across British Columbia, excluding grain and cruise operations. The BCMEA expressed regret over this action, attributing it to ILWU Local 514’s continued “intransigence” and a history of bargaining in bad faith.

The parties met this week with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) to facilitate discussions. The BCMEA presented a final offer, including a 19.2% wage increase, which would elevate the median foreperson salary from $246,323 to $293,617, alongside a $21,000 cumulative lump sum covering signing bonuses and retroactive pay. The offer, which remains open, would ensure retroactive payments by mid-December if accepted.

The BCMEA stated it would rescind the lockout notice if ILWU Local 514 chooses to withdraw its strike notice, emphasizing the importance of stability in Canada’s supply chain.