APAS voicing concern over work disruptions in Vancouver export terminals

REGINA, SK — The Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS) is expressing serious concern over network disruptions linked to work stoppages in British Columbia.

Over the weekend, grain workers at terminals in Metro Vancouver submitted a 72-hour strike notice to their employer, signaling the start of job action by Tuesday. This move threatens to halt operations at six major bulk grain export terminals in Vancouver, a key outlet for Saskatchewan's grain producers. Despite grain being deemed essential for vessel loading under clause 87.7 of the Canada Labour Code, this provision does not cover terminal operations' grain workers.

The Vancouver Terminal Elevator Association (VTEA) is the employer bargaining unit for the Vancouver grain terminals, and it has been in negotiations with the Grain Workers’ Union (GWU) since November 2023.

APAS President Ian Boxall highlighted the recurring nature of such disruptions as a significant concern, emphasizing the continuous risk they pose to the livelihood of farmers in Saskatchewan.

“This is another gut punch for farmers,” Boxall stated Monday. “Our farmers are again caught in the crossfire of labour disputes far from their fields, facing the consequences of halted grain shipments. It’s high time for assertive government action to safeguard our supply chain integrity.

“We remain optimistic that a collective agreement can be successfully reached in the short term, however, it requires an outcome that is fair and equitable for both sides,” stated Boxall.

In light of the looming strike, APAS is urging the Minister of Labour to consider the VTEA’s request for a government directed member vote on the current offer, as a step towards resolving the deadlock and preventing further damage to Saskatchewan's agricultural sector and Canada’s reputation as a reliable grain supplier.
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For more information, please contact:
APAS Communications
Communications@apas.ca

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