Local 13 continues to disrupt ports despite progress in talks, PMA says

The Pacific Maritime Association says members of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) on the ground are disrupting operations at some terminals in the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. The federation, which represents employers in the ports, reiterated its claims about local residents’ actions just hours after the union’s headquarters issued a statement announcing a tentative agreement on “certain key issues” in the 11-month-old contract negotiations became.

The Wall Street Journal, citing sources familiar with the negotiations, said the deal was reached “regarding automated machines at freight terminals.” According to their reporting, the preliminary agreement concerns the use of automation in the ports, which was seen as one of the main bones of contention in the negotiations. Last year, both the PMA and the union released studies into the impact of automation in California’s ports, with reports that the union wanted not only to block further automation, but also to reverse earlier concessions to automation. Only three of the terminals have reportedly deployed automation, but it is believed operators will seek to expand their use.

Observers note that unlike previous statements, yesterday’s statement was not a joint release by the ILWU and the PMA. The employers’ organization issued a brief comment later in the day, saying: “While significant progress has been made in coastal contract negotiations, several key issues remain unresolved.”

Last month, the PMA said Local 13, which covers the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, has used new tactics to disrupt operations. In earlier statements, the PMA said Local 13 was using illegal tactics ranging from not staggering meal breaks to not reporting for two shifts on March 6.

Yesterday, the PMA reiterated its positions, saying: “Work actions led by ILWU Local 13 in the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach today continued to disrupt some operations at key naval terminals. The union intentionally conducts inspections that are not routine, unscheduled and conducted in a manner that disrupts terminal operations.”

Local 13 previously responded to the earlier allegations, confirming that it was taking advantage of the current volume slump at ports to conduct inspections that had been postponed for the past two years while ports were running at peak levels. “Monthly, quarterly, semi-annual and annual inspection requirements ensure that cargo handling equipment is in good operating condition.” They cited safety concerns, noting that accidents could result in damage to cargo and equipment and serious injury or death. “Terminal operators who have a clear shortage of mechanical staff obviously have the longest list of deficiencies to address,” the locale said in a statement.

“We hope to conduct these inspections in a systematic and timely manner for the benefit of all supply chain partners,” Local 13 said. “In the meantime, our members continue to move cargo with skill and efficiency.”

Contract negotiations began on May 10, 2022. While it was expected to be a lengthy process, calls for an agreement grew. Uncertainty and fears of further escalation that could affect operations continue to be spearheaded by shippers and carriers as vessels and cargo are diverted from West Coast ports.

Source: News Network