LOS ANGELES — A tentative agreement on key technology issues separating West Coast port operators and longshoremen has been reached, said federal negotiators, the first sign of compromise among the parties whose rift led to a 10-day closing of West Coast docks last month, reports the Wall Street Journal.
The details of the tentative agreement weren’t released by the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service. But the International Longshore and Warehouse Union previously stated it was willing to implement new technology at the ports as long as the jobs related to it fell under its umbrella. The Pacific Maritime Association, representing terminal operators and shipping companies, has resisted that demand.
The mediation service indicated, however, that the agreement includes ” retention of the union’s jurisdiction for marine clerk work.” The implementation of new technologies at the ports would eliminate about 600 jobs. The union represents 10,500 workers.
ILWU spokesman Steve Stallone also wouldn’t provide details, but said, “It’s a major piece we accomplished.” The two sides will meet again later Friday to discussion pension funding. Also remaining on the table: safety rules, arbitration and wage levels.
The union said it wants a share of the “increased wealth” new technology will bring in the form of higher pensions. “Pensions is the next important one,” said Mr. Stallone. “Because without our getting a fair share, we don’t have a deal.”
A PMA spokesman declined to comment Friday.
The ILWU has been back at work since Oct. 9 after the Bush administration invoked the Taft-Hartley Act to end a 10-day lockout instigated by the PMA. A federal judge is currently monitoring conditions on the docks, which have been marred by cross accusations by the two parties about productivity. Last week, the PMA accused the union of waging a slowdown, while the ILWU responded that slow movement was largely the result of a lack of truck and train capacity. The Justice Department is mulling the two arguments.