Last updated: 6:45 PM ET, Sun June 9, 2024
Union leadership for Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) workers and the government have extended mediation talks until Wednesday, June 12 avoiding the prospect of border slowdowns, at least for now.
A 4 p.m. June 7 deadline was allowed to pass, with some signs of progress in talks.
"I'm hopeful we can reach a deal and avoid disruptions at Canada's borders," said Mark Weber, Customs and Immigration Union (CIU) national president, in a media release.
In a statement, the Treasury Board Secretariat of Canada said the government has "committed to remain at the table to continue negotiations."
"To date, discussions have been productive, and we remain committed to reaching an agreement that is fair and reasonable for members of the Border Services Group as quickly as possible."
Congested U.S. and Canadian border crossing. (photo via LilliDay / E+)
The CIU, which is affiliated with the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC), and the CBSA have been without a contract for two years. Over 9,000 workers have been in a legal strike position since Thursday, including employees at airports, and land and marine ports of entry.
Most border workers – about 90% -- are deemed essential, so they are required to continue to do their jobs, while free to participate in job action outside their working hours. But industry observers say a work-to-rule campaign by border workers could still cause significant delays for travellers.
The union is looking to secure wage parity with other law enforcement agencies, as well as a "25 and out" retirement provision, among other demands.
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