SIU Canada President Chris Given sent a letter to a wide range of marine sector stakeholders across the country, including government officials, companies, industry partners and other labour organizations regarding a concerning proposal currently being considered as part of a Transport Canada consultation. If implemented, the proposal would permit foreign-flagged vessels to operate in Canada’s domestic shipping trade during so called “emergencies” without a coasting trade license.
SIU Canada has, and always will, oppose proposals of this nature. Canada’s cabotage system exists to protect our domestic shipping industry, Canadian jobs, and Canada’s ability to remain self-sufficient and resilient during times of crisis. Any attack against those protections undermines Canadian seafarers, operators and the long term stability of our marine sector and our supply chains.
The SIU Canada will fight with all of our power against this ill-conceived proposal from Transport Canada in order to protect the jobs of our Members and the future of our industry.
Read the full letter from President Given here:
The Discussion document for this consultation can be found here.
Submissions can be sent to TC.engagement.TC@tc.gc.ca with a current deadline of June 7, 2026.
