More than 7,000 BC port workers are on strike. Members of the International Longshore & Warehouse Union Canada went on strike Saturday morning. The Canadian Federation of Independent Business has issued a statement saying it is very concerned about the strike at the Port of Vancouver.

The CFIB is calling on the government to ensure that port operations are maintained, and that negotiations continue in order for both parties to find an agreement as quickly as possible.

The Union has agreed to service grain vessels as well as cruise ships during the strike but the CFIB says it is not enough and the organization says a strike could have serious consequences for the economy and small businesses.  The Vice-President, National Affairs with CFIB says port operations must remain fluid so it doesn’t exacerbate supply chain disruptions and put further pressure on costs when businesses are still feeling the impact of high inflation.

Jasmin Guénette also says strike related delays could mean small businesses lose sales in addition to those which deal in perishable goods which, if not unloaded and taken to market in a timely manner, could mean considerable loss of revenue.  She also says contracts are at risk if goods aren’t delivered on time.

Canadian West Coast ports handle almost $225 billion worth of cargo a year.