(DCWatchdog.com) – Ensuring that supply chains remain uninterrupted, American workers scored a huge victory as longshoremen and port operators reached a crucial agreement.
The bombshell deal was finalized just days before a potential strike, protecting union jobs while allowing East and Gulf Coast ports to modernize.
The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the U.S. Maritime Alliance successfully negotiated a tentative six-year contract agreement.
The deal prevented a potentially devastating strike that could have crippled the nation’s ports.
This agreement was reached shortly before the January 15 deadline, showing the strength and resilience of American workers in the face of increasing automation.
While specific details of the agreement are being kept under wraps to allow members to review and approve it, the deal is being hailed as a “win-win” that creates jobs.
Specifically, the agreement supports American consumers and businesses and reinforces the United States’ position as the key hub of the global marketplace.
President-elect Donald Trump, a long-time advocate for American workers, has expressed his support for the union and opposition to further automation that could negatively impact workers.
“The amount of money saved is nowhere near the distress, hurt and harm it causes for American workers, in this case, our Longshoremen,” Trump said.
ILA President Harold J. Daggett told Trump: “You have proven yourself to be one of the best friends of working men and women in the United States.”
This agreement addresses the contentious issue of port automation, focusing on job protection while allowing for necessary modernization.
The deal permits introducing new technology but requires hiring new workers, effectively balancing progress with job security.
Importantly, full automation remains off the table, ensuring that American workers will continue to play a vital role in the nation’s ports.
The agreement comes after months of tension, including a three-day strike in October that was suspended after workers secured a substantial 62% pay increase over six years.
The two sides stated:
“This agreement protects current ILA jobs and establishes a framework for implementing technologies that will create more jobs while modernising East and Gulf coast ports – making them safer and more efficient, and creating the capacity they need to keep our supply chains strong.”
While the Biden administration attempts to take credit for this agreement, the real victory belongs to the American workers who stood firm in their demands.
The leader of the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) has a message to incoming President Donald J. Trump: “You have proven yourself to be one of the best friends of working men and women in the United States.” Strike averted.
— Sally Seymour (@Sasse1950) January 10, 2025
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