Longshore Workers Open Contract Talks

Negotiations began May 18 in San Francisco between the Pacific Maritime Association and International Longshore and Warehouse Union.

Representing 90 shipping, stevedoring and terminal companies operating along the West Coast, the PMA's current contract with the union expires July 1.

The ILWU represents some 14,500 longshore workers, marine clerks, "walking bosses" and foremen.

The maritime association's agreements with the union cover wages, employee benefits and conditions of employment.

More than 50% of all ocean-borne containerized cargo in the United States moves through West Coast ports.