St. Lawrence Seaway Workers Begin Strike Action! The Seaway will remain shut down until an agreement can be reached!

MONTREAL – In a media release sent out on Saturday, Unifor locals 4211, 4319, 4212, 4323 and 4320 representing St. Lawrence Seaway workers made the difficult decision to go on strike after negotiations failed to reach a satisfactory agreement.

The Seaway will remain shut down until an agreement can be reached, said the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation (SLSMC) in a media release.

SLSMC went on to say, “The parties are at an impasse as UNIFOR continues to insist on wage increases inspired by automotive-type negotiations, while the SLSMC works to find a fair and competitive labour agreement that balances wage demands and market realities. As a result, the system will remain shut down until an agreement can be reached, whether it be temporary or tentative, as we work diligently to minimize disruption for all stakeholders.”

“The stakes are high, and we are fully dedicated to finding a resolution that serves the interests of the Corporation and its employees. We remain committed to continuing discussions and reaching a fair labour agreement,” stated Terence Bowles, SLSMC President and CEO. “In these economically and geopolitically critical times, it is important that the Seaway remains a reliable transportation route for the efficient movement of essential cargoes between North America and the remainder of the world.”

Unifor National President Lana Payne expressed her disappointment in the failure of the employer to make serious movement in the past two days, saying: “This impasse is extremely unfortunate but our members remain committed to getting a fair agreement.”

A 72-hour strike notice was officially filed on October 18, and despite sustained negotiating efforts, no resolution was reached by Saturday, October 21 at the 11:59 p.m. deadline.

Unifor Quebec Director Daniel Cloutier emphasized the negotiating committee’s ongoing commitment to constructive dialogue and said, “We negotiated in good faith right up to the last moment, but we cannot allow workers’ rights to be compromised. We remain open to discussion and hope that the employer will reconsider its position for the good of all.”

The SLSMC said it is awaiting a response to its Canada Industrial Relations Board application, seeking a ruling under the Canada Labour Code for the Union to provide employees during a strike to ensure vessels engaged in the movement of grain continue transiting the system.

“An orderly shutdown of the system took place during the 72-hour notice period allowing for vessels to safely clear the Seaway system, and the Corporation remains in regular contact with the marine industry. Currently, there are no vessels waiting to exit the system, but there are over 100 vessels outside the system, that are impacted by the situation.” said the SLSMC.