Labour minister suggests a 90-day strike moratorium and special mediator for Port of Montreal
Last Thursday, nearly 1,200 dockworkers began an indefinite strike on overtime shifts, following a three-day strike at two container terminals the previous week.
Federal Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon has proposed appointing a special mediator to assist with contract negotiations at the Port of Montreal.
The proposal includes a three-month period during which strikes and lockouts would be paused.
MacKinnon shared the proposal via social media on Tuesday evening, giving both the union and management until Friday night to decide whether to accept the offer, which includes a 90-day freeze on work stoppages.
He visited Montreal earlier that day to meet with representatives from both sides.
Last Thursday, nearly 1,200 dockworkers began an indefinite strike on overtime shifts, following a three-day strike at two container terminals the previous week.
The Maritime Employers Association stated it would review the proposal, acknowledging the impact the strike has had on its operations.
The union, which has cited scheduling as a major issue, did not provide any comment on Tuesday.