It has been stated in an ILWU Bulletin and the Puget Sound Business Journal that all 29 West Coast Ports will temporarily halt vessel labor over the weekend.

“This morning at negotiations, PMA President and CEO Jim McKenna informed the Coast Negotiating Team that the PMA Board of Directors has decided that from 5:00 p.m. Friday (February 6, 2015) to 8:00 a.m. Monday (February 9, 2015) no vessel labor will be ordered on the entire West Coast with the exception of dock work, rail work, military, perishables and cruise ships.” [source]

 


“The Pacific Maritime Association, which represents terminal operators at West Coast ports, announced Friday they would be shutting down all activity at the ports temporarily over the weekend.

The PMA is halting all vessel loading and unloading operations. The activity which is handled by International Longshore and Warehouse Union members typically runs during weekends, but will be temporarily suspended this weekend. Yard, rail and gate operations may continue operating at terminals at the terminal operators’ discretion.

The ports are scheduled to begin operating again on Monday.

The International Longshore and Warehouse Union and the PMA have been renegotiating an expired labor contract since May. The PMA has accused the ILWU of intentionally slowing down work at the port since October. The ILWU says it is major changes in the industry, not them, causing the ports to operate slower.

This story will be updated with the ILWU’s response as soon as it is available.” [source]

 


There has been a lot of news this week. 

An update of this past week’s news is summarized in an article, “Offer on the Table, Possible Lockout, Public Distortion and Congestion.”  Don’t be afraid to share your opinions with us!  You can email ktaylor@scarbrough-intl.com and read others’ opinions about the West Coast Port Congestion situation here.

Scarbrough will continue to monitor the situation as it continues to unfold.  Please keep connected via our website blog for the most up-to-date information.  Stay tuned.


Scarbrough International, Ltd. takes value in being your international logistics partner. Please contact your dedicated Customer Service Representative or send an email to info@scarbrough-intl.com if you have questions or comments. To view this article online, please click here.