Further to previous announcements in past weeks regarding strike action by Maritime Employers Association at the Port of Montreal, we are hereby notifying you that MEA has received 72 hours’ advance notice from the Longshoremen Union for an indefinite general strike beginning on Monday, August 10 at 7:00 a.m.
This indefinite work stoppage would result in the suspension of berthage services normally provided by longshoremen/longshorewomen and the handling of goods in the Port of Montreal terminals as of August 10 at 7:00 a.m..
Gates and Port Operations at the 2 main Container Terminals MGT and Termont (Terminal Montreal) are both immediately impacted by this action. Services for cargo arriving from or departing for Inland points (involving Loading to rail and unloading from rail) have also been affected
The Montreal Port Authority has issued a statement saying that it is, “concerned about this situation, as Port activities are essential to keep the economy running smoothly and, in some cases, to ensure public health and safety. A prolonged stoppage or slowdown in port operations is unwelcome, not only for the logistics and supply chain but also for the businesses and citizens who benefit from the movement of goods. We are therefore closely monitoring the situation and look forward to workers’ employer, the Maritime Employees Association, and the Union to reach an agreement promptly.”
As a result of these actions, coloaders are examining options for all export services departing from the Port of Montreal for cut-offs on / about of Aug 6th and beyond.
Clients will be advised on individual bookings.
Most containers previous discharged at Port of Montreal have be pulled and/or are loaded to rail. Containers on board Montreal Express (eta MON Aug 12) has already been announced as being diverted to Halifax. Announcements for future vessels have yet to be made by the carriers.
We will continue to closely monitor the situation and hope that the stevedores’ employer, the Maritime Employees Association, and the Union will be able to reach an agreement quickly.
However, please be prepared to experience some delays in availability of your Import Cargo arriving at Montreal and for your Export Cargo departing from Canada.
Any new bookings will be made with coloaders and carriers with services avoiding Montreal.
In the meantime, we will keep you informed of any developments as needed.
