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Port of Montreal Lockout Disrupts Operations, Exacerbating Canada’s Supply-Chain Challenges

Maggie Johnson

Image Credit: “Port of Montreal Joins Pioneers,” available at Yahoo Images (10/27/2024).


The labor dispute at the Port of Montreal has intensified, with 1,200 dockworkers being locked out after turning down a final offer from the Maritime Employers Association (MEA). The proposal included a 20% pay raise over six years, raising workers' average compensation to over C$200,000 annually by the end of the contract. However, the union rejected this offer, pointing to a significantly higher 62% raise secured by U.S. dockworkers.

Tensions have escalated since workers walked off the job on October 31, severely disrupting operations at the Port of Montreal, Canada’s second-largest port, which typically handles nearly C$400 million in goods daily. While some services, like a grain terminal, continue, most port activity is significantly affected.

The Montreal Port Authority has called for federal intervention, with CEO Julie Gascon stressing the vital role of the ports and the urgent need for progress in negotiations. Canadian Labor Minister Steven MacKinnon has also expressed concern over the delays in both Montreal and British Columbia, where a separate dispute has already led to disruptions costing C$800 million daily. MacKinnon has urged a swift resolution, highlighting the critical role of ports in Canada’s economy and supply chains.

With these two major labor disputes causing significant economic strain, the pressure is mounting on both sides to reach a resolution. The government is closely monitoring the situation, recognizing the disruptions' growing toll on Canadian businesses and trade. There is a deepening concern about the potential long-term impact on Canada’s reputation as a reliable trading partner and the stability of its trade infrastructure.

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