B.C. port employers launch lockout as labour disruption begins [Video]

VANCOUVER –

Employers have locked out more than 700 unionized workers in the latest development in a labour dispute that the union says will shut down all ports in British Columbia until further notice.

The BC Maritime Employers Association said Monday that its “difficult decision” to impose the lockout came after the International Longshore and Warehouse Union Local 514 commenced “industry-wide strike activity” at employers’ terminals.

The employers association said in a release that the lockout in response to strike action would begin on the 4:30 p.m. shift on Monday and continue until further notice, but it would not affect grain or cruise operations.

“ILWU Local 514’s strike action has already begun to impact B.C.’s waterfront operations and strike activity can easily escalate, including a complete withdrawal of labour without notice,” the employers said in explaining its decision to lock out union members.

Local 514 said in an email response that members …