Ahead of a strike set for Nov. 4 at two terminals in the Port of Montréal, the Maritime Employers Association (MEA) said it will have no choice but to proceed with the suspension of the wage guarantee starting Nov. 5 for all longshore workers on board . Port of Montreal not working. The Nov. 2 announcement from the MEA said the move was a mitigation measure to reduce the cumulative financial impact of repeated strikes and lower volumes at the Port of Montréal.

The Montreal Port Authority (MPA) expressed “deep concern” about the strike’s adverse effects on supply chains and the economy at large, at a time when cargo, particularly for the holiday season, is expected in port. According to World Cargo News, with 40 percent of Montreal’s total container handling capacity paralyzed, the impact is already spreading throughout the region’s logistics network, with ships and trains diverting to alternative routes.

The MEA said it intended to enter into a period of accelerated negotiations with the Union, without preconditions, with the support of a special mediator appointed by the federal Labor Minister, to reach a new collective agreement.

Rejecting this proposal, the Port of Montreal Longshoremen’s Union, CUPE Local 375, called an indefinite strike on October 31 that directly blocks the TerMont-run Viau and Maisonneuve terminals and the handling of 40% of the containers delivered to the port. “This regrettable decision, which is in addition to the refusal to work overtime since October 10, has a major impact on most operations at the Port of Montréal,” the MEA said. “The Union’s actions have caused a movement of goods to other destinations.”

The MEA has informed the Union that it will suspend the wage guarantee under which Port of Montréal longshore workers who are on call but not working due to insufficient volume receive their full wages each week. The MEA said the provision, unique to Montréal longshore workers, is expected to cost about $15 million in 2024. The suspension would exclude workers in the bulk sector and essential services.

While the TerMont terminals are closed, all other terminals at the Port of Montréal continue to operate as normal.