DECEMBER 2023 9 seems to be a greater divide between the haves and the have-nots. An Overview of Recent Strike Action Post-Covid, we had a lot of union contract agreements come due. We also saw an increase in worker resentment around a lack of respect, stressful working conditions, wages unable to keep pace with the cost-of-living increases, plain old inflation, and high housing prices. We’ve also seen that workers wanting more respect also seem to have noticed that they finally hold an advantage over their employees, as their skills are not easily replaced by anyone off the street. However, when workers go on strike, there are delivery delays and rising shipping costs. There is also the fact that the country’s reputation suffers on the global stage. If an agent is purchasing grain for a country and Canada is unable to supply it because a closed port does not allow it to be shipped and received on time, that agent will look elsewhere to get the time-sensitive cargo. Canadian farmers not only lose out on a sale, but the country also gains a reputation for not being a reliable trade partner. As well, there’s the financial loss of revenues and contract fines. Of course, it’s not just agricultural food that is affected by shipping delays. For tractor manufacturers who rely on steel, shipping delays mean the customer will also have to wait. A lack of materials could also mean that manufacturing slows or grinds to a halt. Not only does it affect the bottom line, but it also affects the worker. So in the case of port workers getting paid, manufacturing employees may have suffered due to layoffs or job cuts. Shipped fuel being prevented from reaching its destination because of a strike action also means that everyone who uses fuel will have to pay a higher price, which eats into one’s own profits. Lest we forget, increased prices for goods being transported will also increase inflation. While we cannot begrudge one party wanting to strike for whatever their reasons are, even if they are not immediately felt, a strike will play havoc with the Canadian economy on multiple levels, affecting Canadian businesses and Canadian consumers. It’s a vicious circle getting more vicious. Produce. Protect. Proud. Anhydrous Ammonia: Retailer Safe Handling & TDG Certification This course is designed to promote the safe transportation and handling of anhydrous ammonia at an agri-retail location or distribution centre. Successful trainees receive: a TDG (Transportation of Dangerous Goods) certificate valid for three (3) years from the date signed, confirming they are qualified to transport and handle anhydrous ammonia (Class 2.3 (8)). CAAR Member Price: $95 | Non-members: $150 Contact Maikka 204-989-9304 | maikka@caar.org Visit the website: https://caar.org/training
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