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Canadian business leaders urge government to protect supply chains

The letter highlights the economic damage caused by recent strikes at major ports, railways, and waterways.

Bollard Port Over Water

In an open letter published on October 11, 2024, Karl Blackburn, president and CEO of the Quebec Board of Employers (CPQ), alongside several prominent business leaders, urged the federal government to take decisive action to protect Canada's supply chains from the detrimental effects of labor disputes. The letter, co-signed by key figures across various industries, highlighted the significant economic and reputational damage caused by recent disruptions to essential services such as ports, railways, and waterways.

The letter pointed to the negative impact of labor strikes at the Port of Vancouver, the St. Lawrence Seaway, and the national rail network, which have led to millions of dollars in additional costs for businesses and consumers. The signatories argue that these disruptions jeopardize the livelihoods of workers, the well-being of businesses, and Canada's standing as a reliable global trading partner.

“We, the signatories of this letter, call for strong leadership to protect supply chains from unreasonable disruption,” Blackburn wrote, emphasizing the urgent need for a long-term solution that balances workers' rights with maintaining essential services.

The letter also criticized the recent passage of Bill C-58, which prohibits the use of replacement workers during strikes but lacks provisions to protect supply chains. According to the signatories, this oversight has caused international partners to lose confidence in Canada's reliability, as key shipments remain stranded in ports and storage facilities.

While the federal government has intervened on occasion, such as invoking section 107 of the Canadian Labour Code to prevent a railway stoppage, Blackburn and his fellow signatories argue that a more predictable and sustainable approach is needed. They are calling for the maritime, rail, and air sectors to be formally recognized as essential services to safeguard the nation's economic stability.

The letter concludes with a direct appeal to government leaders, asking, “Who in our government will raise their hands to defend the health of our economy, our reputation abroad, and our quality of life by protecting supply chains?”

The open letter was co-signed by leaders from major organizations including the Chamber of Commerce of Metropolitan Montreal, Fertilizers Canada, the Western Grain Elevator Association, and the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, among others. Together, these business leaders are pushing for a balanced approach that protects both workers' rights and the vital supply chains that keep Canada’s economy moving.

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