ILWU Local 502 members who work at SGS Canada have been in negotiations since July 2024, trying to reach a first collective agreement. For the past two months, the parties were in Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service. However, talks broke down and an impasse was declared on November 21. These members unload jet fuel from deepsea vessels and transport it to the Vancouver International Airport (YVR).
Earlier this week, the parties had reengaged at the bargaining table with the aim to achieve an agreement at the table. However, attempts to secure such a deal fell short. As a result, at 6 PM PST on December 12, ILWU Local 502 members withdrew their labour in an effort to try to reach a first collective agreement with their employer, SGS Canada.
PSAC BC stands in solidarity with ILWU Local 502 workers and their efforts for a fair collective agreement and encourages PSAC members to support these striking workers.
Members who work alongside ILWU Local 502 workers at YVR Tank Farm 2 are encouraged to consider the following when encountering a picket line:
- Respect the picket line.
- Identify yourself to the picket captain. If possible, have some form of PSAC identification with you to show to the picket captain. You do NOT need your membership card. ID can be anything from showing a PSAC email you’ve received, or a button, etc.
- Should the picket line not let you cross or you fear for your safety, please contact your manager/supervisor to request an escort into the worksite. When requested, an escort must be provided. Do not attempt to cross a picket line you believe would put your personal safety at risk.
Members are further encouraged to come out and support the ILWU picket lines before and after their shifts and when on breaks.