Workers at a facility in B.C.’s Port of Prince Rupert responsible for testing materials destined for export from various industries, including mining and forestry, are set to go on strike starting Friday, as announced by their union. The International Longshore & Warehouse Union Local 505 disclosed that lab and preparation technicians at SGS Minerals unanimously voted in favor of a strike and have issued a strike notice effective August 14. SGS Minerals serves as the minerals sector of the global testing, inspection, and certification firm SGS.
The small team of four workers in Prince Rupert conducts tests on samples like coal and wood pellets to assist in determining cargo quality and commercial worth prior to shipment. Keith Cociani, the president of ILWU Local 505, expressed concerns that a strike could lead to samples being diverted to SGS facilities in other parts of B.C., potentially resulting in increased expenses and shipping delays.
Cociani highlighted the significance of the Prince Rupert lab, emphasizing that its closure would necessitate sending samples to Vancouver or Delta for processing in SGS’s other laboratory, causing potential disruptions to shipping schedules and higher costs for the company. The workers, who formed the ILWU Local 505 bargaining unit in November 2024, have been engaged in negotiations for their initial collective agreement since then.
Cociani criticized the employer for being unyielding on wage matters, noting that the workers unanimously rejected a final offer and the company failed to respond to the union’s counter-offer during mediation by the B.C. Labour Relations Board. The union is urging the company to re-engage in negotiations and present a counter-offer instead of insisting on reducing workers’ demands.
Cociani expressed confidence in the workforce at SGS Minerals, stating that the company is underestimating the determination and unity of the employees. CBC News has sought a comment from SGS Minerals regarding the situation.