Mediator Vince Ready seeks solution between truckers, Port of Vancouver

VANCOUVER – As the threat of job action by unionized truckers at the Port of Vancouver hangs over the facility, a well-respected mediator has joined talks in hopes of heading off a strike.

Unifor-Vancouver Container Truckers’ Association says mediator Vince Ready is meeting with the association in downtown Vancouver as a noon-time strike deadline looms.

Association president Paul Johal says drivers have long-standing concerns and if progress can’t be made in negotiations, picket lines remain the only option.

Johal says his members are demanding better pay and standardized rates to prevent undercutting, and they also want the Port of Vancouver to address long line ups and wait times that keep drivers off the road, raising their costs.

Unifor-VCTA has been without a contract since June 2012.

Non-union truckers withdrew services at the Port of Vancouver late last month, with rates and delays the main issues.