West Coast Ports "Approaching Gridlock"

 

The U.S. is experiencing delays at some major ports due to congestion and labor issues, with the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) warning that operations at the five largest ports on the West Coast are approaching gridlock.

The PMA, which represents management in contract talks with the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU), said this week that more than two months of ILWU staged slowdowns had reduced terminal productivity at the five largest ports on the West Coast. The ILWU said last week the shortage of yard crane operators was a consequence of PMA's refusal - before the commencement of negotiations - to adequately train.

A federal mediator has been asked to get involved in contract negotiations. To date, the ILWU and PMA have reached tentative agreements on health care and increases to pay guarantees.

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