B.C. port resolution hopeful, accountability urged

Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) express hope for the resolution of the B.C. ports labor dispute as a tentative agreement is reached between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union Canada (ILWU) and the BC Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA).

The situation has resulted in average daily costs of $207,000 for Canadian manufacturers. 

The federal government is urged to ensure swift ratification of the new deal by holding the parties accountable. In case the tentative deal falls through, the federal government is called upon to recall Parliament and enact back-to-work legislation to resume goods movement.

CME emphasizes the need for reforms to designate critical transportation infrastructure, such as ports, as essential, to establish predictability and stability for all manufacturers.

"We are closely watching the situation and remain hopeful for a successful resolution," said Dennis Darby, president and CEO of CME. "However, manufacturers and our economy cannot continue to withstand these disruptions that are severely impacting our sector. We need the federal government to seriously consider measures to ensure stability in manufacturing."