The union representing the Port of Montreal longshore workers has announced an indefinite strike on the territory of the Port of Montreal, including the Contrecoeur terminal, effective Monday, April 26, 2021, at 7:00 AM.  Normal trucking service and operations will be maintained until Friday, April 23, at 11:00 PM.  This announcement follows the recent slowdown campaign by the longshoremen that discontinued overtime work, training activities, and weekend work.

Canadian industry groups believe the ongoing labour dispute has caused serious consequences for people and businesses of all kinds.  They have been calling on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government to intervene and help resolve this critical situation.

During the 2020 strike, vessels and cargo were diverted to other ports, and there were months of container backlogs.  With this upcoming strike, shippers should expect significant congestion that will lead to delays and shortages of consumer goods.

Deringer will continue to provide updates as negotiations develop between the MEA and CUPE 275 union representatives.