Union negotiations aim to prevent strike at British Columbia ports

Negotiations between British Columbia's port employers and the foremen's union are in their final scheduled day to prevent a strike. Talks began on October 29, with federal mediation involved. The union represents about 700 foremen and has a strike mandate expiring on November 2. The union, which voted 96% in favor of a strike if needed, is focused on issues with DP World regarding manpower and automation. The Canada Industrial Relations Board ruled that the union cannot negotiate with just one employer, leading to an industry-wide strike vote. Recent disruptions at Vancouver's port, Canada's largest, include pickets at grain terminals and work stoppages at railways. A previous strike last year halted significant trade at the docks.