The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) has paused its ongoing contract negotiations with U.S. port workers after what it says is an unfair push to integrate more automation and technology into U.S. ports.
Much of the country watched last month as a brief strike of ILA workers went into effect, after talks between them and the U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX) broke down. Soon after, amid mounting public pressure and ahead of a crucial presidential election, the strike ended as the groups announced a tentative deal. Then, starting recently, the parties were further negotiating a final deal. Now, those talks have already broken down.
The ILA’s position was briefed posted publicly, before being removed: “USMX introduced language in their proposal for semi-automated equipment to be used at ILA ports, which this union outright rejected. The ILA recognized this as a renewed attempt by USMX to eliminate ILA jobs with automation and broke off talks.”
Automation technology has complicated the negotiations.
Automation technology has been a sticking point for a long time for union workers in shipping and elsewhere. The ILA views automation as seeking to eliminate unionized port workers, while the USMX and other parties view it as helping the industry modernize and improving streamlined port operations.
With the agreement reached last month, the parties have committed to negotiate and finalize a deal by January 15th. The latest move puts renewed pressure on the parties to reach a deal.
The USMX, for its position, maintains that its automation technology sought will not eliminate unionized jobs, but will improve port operations and shipping at-large.
We will now find out if a strike is truly back in the cards, or if the parties will make good-faith efforts to restart negotiations, as is commonly the case.
