The St. Lawrence Shipowners welcome the swift action of Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Labour and Seniors

Press Release
For Immediate Release
Québec – July 24th 2024

The St. Lawrence Shipowners (ASL) welcome the ministerial referral to the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) regarding the maritime transport services provided by Desgagnés and its crews, to evaluate aspects of essential services.

Desgagnés' maritime services ensure the supply of essential goods such as food, medicine, fuel, and more to isolated Canadian communities and companies. Any disruption in the logistics chain would have severe consequences for the livelihood of Canadians living and working in these remote areas.

Minister MacKinnon's swift action is crucial in evaluating the aspects of essential services as defined by the Labour code in article 87.4 which ensures the continuation of necessary activities to prevent an immediate and serious danger to the safety or health of the public in the event of a work stoppage.

ASL members play a crucial role in the fluidity and resilience of the Canadian supply chain through their expertise in maritime transport. ASL emphasizes that any disruption to this chain can have serious consequences, demonstrating the importance of maintaining a robust maritime infrastructure and ecosystem to support the Canadian economy.

For any questions, please contact:

Louis-Alexandre Lanthier (he/him/il)
T. 343-575-0760
louis-alexandre.lanthier@paainc.ca

About the St. Lawrence Shipowners

A key player in maritime transport since 1936, ASL is an association representing 13 domestic shipowners who transport goods and passengers on the waters of the St. Lawrence, as well as the Great Lakes, the Arctic, and the Maritime provinces. Our mission is to support the growth of our members and the development of maritime transport on the St. Lawrence by ensuring the representation and promotion of Canadian shipowners' activities.