by Manal Barakat, SeaNewsEditor
Following a two-week strike, the Port of Montreal will resume operations on Saturday, 16 November, at 07:00 local time.
The Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) has mandated the reopening, and the Montreal Port Authority reported that it is collaborating with port and intermodal partners to implement a recovery plan.
While this plan aims to restore normal operations swiftly, clearing the backlog of goods may take several weeks.
German carrier Hapag-Lloyd has similarly indicated that the clean-up process could extend over the coming weeks, leading to delayed clearances and deliveries.
As a result, the carrier's timetables need to be re-established due to significant delays.
In the meantime, the Maritime Employers Association (MEA) said it will act on the CIRB’s order, and port employees will receive their assignments from 15 November.
The MEA adds that it will work with the Longshoremen’s Union, CUPE Local 375, and other supply chain partners to ensure an efficient resumption of operations.
Earlier this week, the Minister of Labour, Steven MacKinnon, intervened in the disputes affecting Montreal, British Columbia, and Québec City, requesting binding arbitration to resolve the issues impacting businesses and consumers.