Following an interest arbitration ordered by the Government of Canada

MONTREAL, Oct. 16, 2026 /CNW/ -- The Maritime Employers Association (MEA) announces today the upcoming implementation of the new collective agreement between the Association and the union representing more than 1,200 longshore workers at the Port of Montreal, covering the years 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027 and 2028, for a total duration of five years.

The collective agreement was established by a labour dispute arbitration tribunal, in accordance with the decision rendered by the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB), following the federal government's request that the dispute be referred to arbitration. This intervention followed several strikes and work stoppages that had disrupted port operations and essential supply chains serving nearly 110 million people in Canada and the United States.

      "We are pleased with the implementation of this new collective agreement," said Nicola Dolbec, President of the Maritime Employers Association. "After a period marked by uncertainty, this five-year agreement provides the stability needed to ensure the continued operations of the Port of Montreal and support the economic growth of the regions and industries it serves across the country. It will allow all stakeholders — customers, communities, employees and partners — to plan with confidence for the years ahead."

The arbitration decision establishes the working conditions, compensation and other provisions of the collective agreement for the entire five-year period. MEA notes that this resolution brings an end to a period of uncertainty resulting from deadlocks in difficult negotiations marked by service disruptions, while supporting the continuation of a reliable and competitive port service with significant potential for growth.

The Maritime Employers Association reiterates its commitment to working constructively with its union partners under this new agreement, while continuing to invest in the safety, efficiency and development of the Port of Montreal to contribute to the vitality of local communities and the Canadian economy.

About the Maritime Employers Association

The Maritime Employers Association is a non-profit organization representing shipping lines and port terminals. Its members include shipping companies, port terminal operators, as well as maritime agents and operators.

SOURCE Maritime Employers Association