Canada must implement the Industrial Inquiry Commission Report recommendations

For Immediate Release

VANCOUVER, B.C. — In response to the release of the Industrial Inquiry Commission (IIC) Report into longshoring labour disputes at Canada’s West Coast ports, Bridgitte Anderson, President and CEO of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, issued the following statement:

“With over a quarter of Canada’s traded goods moving through our West Coast ports every day, the stakes for our economy could not be higher. Over the course of 16 months, a series of labour disputes shut down most waterfront operations disrupting $19.2 billion worth of cargo and severely undermining Canada’s reputation as a reliable trading partner.

While we commend the federal government for taking the sensible step of appointing respected labour relations experts Vince Ready and Amanda Rogers to lead the Industrial Inquiry Commission, the work is not done. The status quo is not an option.

The Ready and Rogers report report offers a practical and legally sound roadmap to restore stability while upholding the right to strike and it must be implemented without delay. With only 17 months until the next round of bargaining, Canada cannot afford a repeat of the chaos that businesses and workers experienced. Particularly in the face of increased trade hostility from our southern neighbours.

To build one Canadian economy — not thirteen — we must ensure our supply chains are stable, predictable, and globally competitive. We urge the Government of Canada to accept the Commission’s recommendations in full and act urgently to enshrine them well before bargaining resumes.

The Greater Vancouver Board of Trade will continue to advocate for measures that drive economic growth, protect jobs, and strengthen Canada’s trade relationships. This includes our ongoing call for a bold target of 3% annual GDP growth — a challenge we believe is achievable through decisive action, such as implementing the IIC’s recommendations and ensuring Canada remains a partner the world can rely on.”

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About the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade:

Since its inception in 1887, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade has been recognized as Western Canada's leading business association, engaging our members to inform public policy at all levels of government and empowering them to succeed and prosper in the global economy. With a Membership whose employees comprise one-third of B.C.'s workforce, we are the largest business association between Victoria and Toronto. We leverage this collective strength, facilitating networking opportunities, and providing professional development through unique programs. In addition, we operate one of the largest events platforms in the country, providing a stage for national and international thought leaders to enlighten B.C.'s business leaders.

Media contact:

Federico Cerani
Communications Manager
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
604-640-5450 | media@boardoftrade.com