ILWU Canada renews its commitment to the direct employers

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ILWU Canada renews its commitment to the direct employers

We acknowledge your communication expressing concern over the ILWU Canada’s members’ rejection of the proposed four-year tentative agreement. It is in the spirit of open communication and cooperation that we respond to address the points raised in your letter and seek a resolution that benefits all stakeholders.

The critical issue is the practice of contracting out maintenance work that poses a significant threat to job security and the integrity of the ILWU workforce. While ILWU Canada recognizes the need for a competitive and efficient maritime industry, this should not displace skilled and experienced workers who have dedicated their careers to ensuring the smooth functioning of Canada’s West Coast ports.

We are deeply concerned that, if unchecked, this practice will lead to an erosion of our workforce and expertise, ultimately jeopardizing the stability and efficiency of Canada’s maritime industry.

ILWU Canada proposes a renewed commitment to protect ILWU jobs through provisions that limit or regulate the extent of maintenance work that can be contracted out. By implementing clear guidelines, we can ensure that our members’ livelihoods are secure and that the skills and experience of the ILWU labor force are preserved for the benefit of Canada’s supply chain.

Another critical concern that must be addressed is worker safety and wellbeing. ILWU Canada firmly believes that a comprehensive approach to safety, involving joint efforts and open feedback can further reduce accidents and improve the overall wellbeing of our workforce.

ILWU Canada values our Charter of Rights and views work stoppages as a last resort in response to serious disputes or unresolved issues. We remain committed to working towards a resolution through negotiation and mediation before resorting to any industrial action. It is essential to recognize that mutual respect, fair wages, and equitable working conditions can create a stable and productive work environment, reducing the likelihood of disputes that lead to work stoppages.

We acknowledge that productivity is a shared responsibility and a key factor in maintaining the competitiveness of our industry. ILWU Canada actively encourages members to enhance their skills and adopt new technologies to increase efficiency and performance. We firmly believe that meaningful dialogue and collaboration between our two organizations can lead to innovative solutions that benefit workers, employers and the maritime industry.

Regarding the proposed four-year agreement, the proposed wage increase and signing bonus payment are noted, and we acknowledge the progress made in addressing certain workforce-related matters. However, the rejection of the tentative agreement by ILWU Canada’s voting membership reflects their collective need to limit contracting out maintenance work coupled with training and updating skills.

ILWU Canada remains open to further negotiations with the BCMEA and the involvement of the Federal Government to address maintenance work and worker safety issues,

We look forward to resuming discussions and finding common ground for the betterment of the Canadian supply chain and the livelihoods of its workforce.

Rob Ashton

President

ILWU Canada

 

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