Canadian labor union calls off second West Coast ports strike

“Even with trade volumes down this will have a negative impact on the supply chain,” said Paul Brashier, vice president of drayage and intermodal at ITS Logistics. “Product will be delayed. Between the jockeying for vessel space and the associated late container fees that will be tacked onto the containers, the consumer in the end will pay for this,” he said.

In addition to wage increases, the tentative labor deal addressed the union’s concern regarding “contracting out” work and measures to improve training, recruitment, and retention of jobs. The BCMEA also agreed to provide benefit coverage for all casual trades workers, a tool allowance, and a commitment to increase apprentices in the industry by 15%.