In response to ILWU Local 514’s second strike notice set to commence on Monday, November 4 at or about 08:00 am PT, and in anticipation of escalating and unpredictable strike action, the BCMEA announced it has made a decision to take defensive action in the form of a coastwide lockout.
BCMEA’s statement said:
ILWU Local 514’s strike action will have repercussions across B.C.’s waterfront operations, and strike activity can easily escalate, including a complete withdrawal of labour without notice. Accordingly, to facilitate a safe and orderly wind-down of operations, the BCMEA has issued formal notice of its intention to defensively lock out all ILWU Local 514 members on Monday, November 4 at or around 08:00 am PT. Should it be required, this coastwide lockout will shut down all cargo operations of BCMEA Member companies across the province. It will not affect longshoring operations on grain vessels or cruise operations.
In the interest of all Canadians, the industry is prepared to rescind lockout notice if ILWU Local 514 chooses to withdraw its strike notice.