VANCOUVER :As waterfront workers begin targeted job action at two B.C. terminals in Canada’s largest port on Monday, Canada’s retail sector is hoping an agreement can be reached without a full-blown strike.
More than half of Canada’s consumer goods come through the Port of Vancouver, according to the Retail Council of Canada, which means a breakdown between the workers and the terminal operator could spell trouble for Canadian businesses.
“Obviously, we’re optimistic and hopeful that the union and the B.C. Maritime Employers Association can come to an agreement,” said Greg Wilson, director of government relations for the retail council.
“But for consumers, if (the dispute) is not resolved, it means potentially higher prices on individual items, in some cases maybe not the brand you want … or some individual items will just be harder to find. And it has a long-term impact.”
Members of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union Canada began “limited and targeted” job action at the Port of Vancouver’s Vanterm and Deltaport container terminals, both operated by Global Container Terminals Canada.
Earlier this month, ILWU Canada members voted overwhelmingly in favour of strike action. And while picket lines are not yet in the cards for the ports, the union said Monday the job action would be acutely felt by port operators.
