May 24, 2024. Members of the Customs and Immigration Union (CIU), which represent CBSA employees including Border Service Officers have voted 96% in favour of strike action. Mediation sessions between the CIU and CBSA are set to begin on June 3, 2024, with the Public Interest Commission (PIC) report expected shortly before these sessions. The CIU will be in a legal strike position seven days following the release of the PIC report, indicating potential job action in June 2024 if a resolution is not reached.
Historically, 90% of frontline Border Services Officers are classified as essential and will continue to provide essential services during a strike. However, CBSA employees based in headquarters or non-frontline positions may not be deemed essential and thus may participate in strike actions. Potential impacts could include increased border wait times, picketing outside CBSA premises, and the wearing of union-related accessories by employees.
The CIU has communicated to its members the significant impact of collective action, citing the 2021 strike that brought commercial cross-border traffic to a near standstill. The union has made it clear that without a satisfactory offer addressing their key issues, similar disruptions could occur again.
Buckland is committed to keeping you informed and will closely monitor this situation. We will provide updates as more information becomes available to ensure you are prepared for any potential impacts.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter. We remain dedicated to supporting your business needs during this time.