Port of Montreal strikers defy back-to-work legislation

MONTREAL (Nov. 6, 2000) — Truckers involved in a three-week wildcat strike at the Port of Montreal continued to defy of back-to-work legislation passed last week by the Quebec government.

Port officials said the strike, which began Oct. 23, has halted the flow of about 13,000 containers containing an estimated $500 million worth of goods. Backed by the Confederation of National Trade Unions, about 900 truck operators, most of which are independent, want the right to form a union to seek better pay and working conditions.

The Port of Montreal is a key gateway for transatlantic container traffic. It processes 8000 containers a week.

The legislation ordered protesters to end blockades that have prevented trucks from entering and leaving the port. Union leaders face fines of up to $125,000 a day if the strike continues. Individual protesters could be fined up to $1000 per day.

One driver trying to enter the port said a bullet hit the windshield of his truck; police have not linked the shooting with the protest actions.