MP Bachrach secures representation for labour groups on port authority boards of directors

“Port workers are critical to our supply chain and bring an important perspective to the table, especially as our ports grapple with issues like automation and decarbonization. I’m proud that after months of pressuring the government, we were able to secure this important representation for working people.”

OTTAWA: Yesterday, Parliament’s transport committee passed MP Taylor Bachrach’s (Skeena-Bulkley Valley) amendments to Bill C-33, the Strengthening the Port System and Railway Safety in Canada Act, which secures a seat for a labour representative on the boards of directors of Canadian ports.

“Port workers are critical to our supply chain and bring an important perspective to the table, especially as our ports grapple with issues like automation and decarbonization,” said Bachrach. “I’m proud that after months of pressuring the government, we were able to secure this important representation for working people.”

Rob Ashton, National President of the ILWU joined Bachrach in celebrating the accomplishment.

“Through the hard work of the NDP and ILWU Canada, we are excited to see Labour will finally have a voice in the Port Authorities where our members work and live,” says Ashton.

Conservative members on the Committee all voted against creating a seat for labour on port boards.

This summer, Bachrach sponsored two parliamentary petitions from the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) calling for labour representation on port authority boards. Over 1,000 BC port workers signed the petitions.

Bachrach also amended Bill C-33 to broaden the purpose of the Canada Marine Act, adding the protection of the marine environment and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions to the list of the Act’s stated purposes.

“As the federal government expands Canada’s trade corridors and enhances the supply chain, it has a responsibility to ensure economic objectives are aligned with environmental commitments,” said Bachrach.

Next week, the Committee continues its deliberations on amendments to Bill C-33. After the committee process is complete, the bill will return to the House of Commons for debate at third reading.