Concerns arising in agriculture sector as B.C. port workers’ strike continues

There continues to be a lot of concern in the agriculture sector about the ongoing strike involving British Columbia port workers.

Around 7,000 people hit the picket line on Saturday after labour talks stalled due to concerns over contracting out, port automation, and the cost of living.

Jim Smolik, who oversees stakeholder relations for the Western Canadian Wheat Growers Association, told farmnewsNOW there could be economic repercussions as those waiting for Canadian exports will likely have to wait longer to get the items they bought.

“They (may also) view Canada as a country that may not be able to deliver on time and that could lead them to look to other exporting countries to fill their needs,” he said. “It’s difficult to gain the customer’s confidence back again.”