A secret meeting between key representatives of the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) has produced a new document outlining potential language on port automation. The agreement aims to address the issue before January 15, when a new East and Gulf Coast ports strike would occur.
According to CNBC, the USMX is willing to pair any new technology with new union jobs, but this could introduce new risks to the deal. Added labor costs might threaten terms agreed in October for a 62% pay hike for union workers. The document suggests that skilled human crane operators have proven their ability to work with modern crane control systems, handling tasks where precision is required.
The proposed language on automation emphasizes the creation of new human jobs to complement any new port technology. However, concerns about added labor costs and potential risks remain within the USMX bargaining team. Sources suggest that critical details still need to be worked out, including what constitutes a necessary job.
A USMX member expressed uncertainty about whether the full group will support this language on automation, potentially risking another strike. The proposal also sparked debate among union leaders, with ILA president Harold Daggett’s leverage in the union increasing as the contract continues to increase his sons’ paychecks.
As formal talks resume on Tuesday, it remains unclear whether the USMX and ILA can reach a comprehensive deal on wages and automation by the January 15 deadline.
Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/06/ila-union-ports-held-secret-meeting-on-automation-as-new-strike-looms.html