Montreal strike leads MEA to suspend salary guarantee

On 1 November, an indefinite strike began at the Port of Montreal’s Viau and Maisonneuve terminals, led by the Port of Montreal Longshoremen’s Union, CUPE Local 375. In response, the Maritime Employers Association (MEA) announced on 2 November that it would suspend the salary guarantee for all non-working longshore workers—excluding those in the bulk sector and essential services—effective 5 November at 7:00 a.m.

“This is a mitigation measure to reduce the cumulative financial impact of repeated strikes and lower volumes at the Port of Montreal,” the MEA stated, citing the severe strain on the port’s operations due to ongoing disruptions.

The MEA had recently proposed “entering into a period of accelerated negotiations with the Union, without preconditions, supported by a special mediator appointed by the federal Minister of Labour, to reach a new collective agreement.” However, the Union rejected this offer and, on 31 October, called an unlimited strike, which has directly affected two TerMont terminals, halting the handling of 40% of the port’s container traffic.

“This regrettable decision, alongside the Union’s refusal to work overtime since 10 October, has severely impacted most operations at the Port of Montreal,” the MEA explained. “Union actions have caused cargo to be redirected to other destinations.”

On 2 November, the MEA notified the Union of its intention to suspend the salary guarantee for container transhipment longshore workers who are not at work due to the strike. “Currently, Port of Montreal longshore workers on call but not working due to insufficient volume receive their full salary each week,” the MEA noted. “This provision, unique to Montreal longshore workers, is expected to cost approximately C$15 million in 2024.”

Since 2022, volumes at the Port of Montreal have dropped significantly, resulting in a 40% decline in MEA revenues. “In this challenging context, the Union’s ongoing pressure tactics are forcing the MEA to make difficult yet necessary decisions to mitigate financial strain on the organisation,” the MEA said, emphasising its commitment to maintaining a qualified workforce to support intermodal transport and protect the supply chain.

Despite the disruptions caused by CUPE Local 375, the MEA confirmed its willingness to continue negotiations with the Union, with the support of a mediator appointed by the Minister of Labour.