The union representing 700 foremen currently locked out of B.C.’s ports has filed a complaint against the BC Maritime Employers Association to the Canada Industrial Relations Board.
ILWU Local 514 is accusing the employers of bargaining in bad faith, making threats, intimidation, coercion, and interference with the administration of a union.
They’re also claiming the employers have breached some sections of the Canada Labour Code and are trying to negotiate with individual members rather than the union.
The Employers Association locked out union members Monday afternoon after the union launched limited job action that morning.
Federal Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon has so far declined to step in, but he says negotiations are moving too slowly for his liking and he’s keeping a close eye on things.
1130 NewsRadio has reached out to the BC Maritime Employers Association for comment.