Trigon Pacific files complaint alleging union failed to bargain in good faith
The company alleges the striking longshore union has not made every reasonable effort to reach a new collective agreement.
Trigon Pacific Terminals has filed a complaint with the Canada Industrial Relations Board alleging that the striking ILWU Local 523A failed to bargain in good faith.
"The Union’s actions have left Trigon with no choice, other than to file a complaint with the Canada Industrial Relations Board alleging that the Union has failed to bargain in good faith and with that, make every reasonable effort to enter into a collective agreement," said Trigon President and CEO Craig Olley.
Trigon did not provide details about the specific bargaining issues at the centre of the dispute or say how far apart the two sides remain on wages, benefits or working conditions.
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The company said it "has continued to unload trains and load vessels" during the strike.
In an earlier response, Trigon said it had fully mobilized its contingency plan and expected to maintain a "base level of service continuity" for customers.
The company did not provide further details on what operations have been reduced, how many people are currently working under the contingency plan, or whether those working are Trigon employees, contractors or other personnel.
Trigon also did not provide details on the extent of any impacts on terminal operations.
The company said it remains available to bargain with the union and find a path forward, but did not indicate whether it has set a date to return to the bargaining table.
It did not outline specific terms or conditions it would require to reach a new collective agreement and end the strike, beyond saying it remains committed to bargaining in good faith and finding a "fair and reasonable solution" that supports the long-term sustainability of its operations.
Trigon operates the bulk export terminal on Ridley Island, handling coal and petroleum coke for international markets. The terminal has about 150 employees, most of whom are represented by ILWU Local 523A.
With files from The Northern View