Fed-up truckers block Halifax container port

HALIFAX, (May 9, 2003) — Frustration over long line-ups and turnaround times at container terminals in the Maritimes reached a breaking point this week when truckers blocked the gate of the Fairview Cove facility in Halifax.

The Chronicle-Herald reported that truckers lined up for hours outside the front gates, began protesting what they say is months of slow turnaround times at both of Halifax’s container terminals.

Calvin Whidden, vice-president of terminal operator Cerescorp, told the newspaper he agreed with the truckers that the recent delays at the terminal are unacceptable. He said he talked with the drivers and came to a financial arrangement that offers them compensation if the long delays continue. The newspaper reported that the company agreed to pay the drivers $10 for every full 15 minutes beyond two hours of waiting time, excluding before 8 a.m. and dinner and supper hours. Cerescorp has also extended its hours until 10 p.m. daily and has new yard equipment on order.

The situation has slightly improved somewhat at Halterm, the south-end terminal, but has deteriorated at Fairview Cove since Atlantic Container Line moved its business there from Halterm in early April.

–with files from the Chronicle Herald