Workers at a facility in Port of Prince Rupert that analyzes materials for export from various industries have given notice of a strike set to begin on Friday, as reported by their union. The International Longshore & Warehouse Union Local 505 announced in a statement on Thursday that lab and preparation technicians at SGS Minerals have voted unanimously in favor of a strike, with the strike notice taking effect on August 14. SGS Minerals is the minerals sector of the global company SGS, which specializes in testing, inspection, and certification.
The team of four workers in Prince Rupert is responsible for testing samples, such as coal and wood pellets, to assist in determining the cargo content and commercial value before shipment. Keith Cociani, the president of ILWU Local 505, expressed concerns that a strike could result in samples needing to be sent to SGS facilities in other locations in British Columbia. This potential relocation could lead to increased costs and shipment delays.
Cociani highlighted the significance of the Prince Rupert lab and the consequences of its closure, emphasizing that all samples would have to be transported to Vancouver or Delta for processing in alternative labs. This would likely cause disruptions in shipping operations and escalate expenses for the company. The union has been striving to negotiate their initial collective agreement since the workers were certified as an ILWU Local 505 bargaining unit in November 2024.
Cociani criticized the employer for being uncompromising on wage matters, mentioning that the workers rejected a final offer made by the company. Despite efforts by the B.C. Labour Relations Board to mediate discussions, the company did not respond to a counter-offer proposed by the union. The union is urging the company to resume negotiations and present a counter-offer rather than persist in demanding reductions in the workers’ requests.
Cociani expressed confidence in the determination and unity of the workforce at SGS Minerals, emphasizing that the company should not underestimate their resolve. CBC News attempted to reach out to SGS Minerals for their input on the situation.