Canada’s Labour Minister, Steven MacKinnon, intervened on Tuesday, November 12, to end the work stoppages at Vancouver, Prince Rupert, and Montreal ports. He directed the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) to order the resumption of all operations and move talks to binding arbitration.
This move aims to alleviate supply chain disruptions and restore normal operations at the ports. MacKinnon’s decision comes after failed negotiations between the Maritime Employers Association (MEA) and the Montreal Longshoremen’s union over a new contract, which led to dockworkers’ overtime strikes this month.
The coast-to-coast port closures delayed ocean freight discharge and loading, forcing Canada’s two main railroads to halt intermodal operations at affected ports. However, major disruptions—such as anchored ships or severe backlogs—appear minimal.
Although the minister’s intervention demands the resumption of port operations, the union says it plans to challenge the federal government’s intervention in the ongoing labour dispute.
Mohawk Global will monitor negotiations and provide updates as necessary.