The Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) has ruled that Trigon Pacific Terminals violated the Canada Labour Code by allowing contractors to perform work normally undertaken by unionized employees during the ongoing strike at Ridley Island in Prince Rupert. In its October 27 decision, the board ordered Trigon to cease the specified contractor activities within 48 hours, potentially disrupting propane movements through AltaGas’s Ridley Island Propane Export Terminal. AltaGas warned that the decision could affect Canadian propane exports, supply chain reliability and Canada’s reputation as a dependable energy supplier, and is considering legal options. The ruling follows an October 20 CIRB decision confirming the legality of the strike, which began October 2. Both Trigon and ILWU Local 523A have indicated their willingness to resume collective bargaining.
