Union activity ashore leaves ships stranded
Causing delays and significant economic hardship to Toledo economy and shipping companies
Montreal, Quebec, Canada (May 15, 2018) – Fednav Limited’s Federal Champlain has been stranded at Midwest Terminals in Toledo, Ohio for nine days and Federal Kumano for two days due to a labor dispute and affiliated picketing by the International Longshoremen’s Association
(ILA) Local 1982.
The Lakes pilots required to sail the vessels refuse to cross the Local 1982’s picket line in order to show solidarity. This action by the members of the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots has forced these two Fednav vessels and another ocean-going ship to effectively
remain as hostages while the labor strife continues ashore.
“Our vessels are being used as bargaining collateral by the parties involved,” said Paul Pathy, President and CEO, Fednav Limited. “We respectfully request that a peaceful and fair settlement be reached in order for our ships to be released from the terminal and end the shipping delays. This is essential in relieving the unnecessary stress on the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority, the local economy in Toledo, as well as other economies across the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway region that are dependent on the cargo we carry on a regular basis. We must keep the Great Lakes moving in order to keep our region’s economies thriving.”
About Fednav
Fednav is Canada's largest ocean-going dry-bulk shipowning and chartering group. For close to 75 years, we have been delivering practical, innovative maritime transportation solutions as a pioneer in the international shipping industry. With offices on four continents and a reputation built on a commitment to customer care and reliability, Fednav is the leader in international shipping on the Great Lakes, as well as the Canadian Arctic, boasting the world’s largest fleet of ice-class bulk carriers.
For more information, please visit www.fednav.com or contact Marc Gagnon, Director, Government Affairs: 514.878.6470 | [email protected]