ILWU takes recess from contract talks to review “technology framework”

ILWU takes recess from contract talks to review “technology framework”

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. (September 25, 2002) – The ILWU has decided to take a recess from contract negotiations with the PMA to review and analyze a technology framework that could guide the implementation of technology on the West Coast waterfront. 

“We are confident that the two sides have agreed in principle to a framework that creates the opportunity to implement technology on the waterfront,” said PMA President and CEO Joe Miniace.  “This could be the critical milestone to move these negotiations to a conclusion,” he said.

The agreement, reached Wednesday, provides general principles and a procedure for the implementation of technology, which includes a technology dispute resolution process that guarantees both parties a fair hearing on issues related to technology implementation.  Disputes would be examined first at the local level, and ultimately would be settled by the Coast Wide Arbitrator, jointly appointed by both parties.

Though significant details remain to be settled, this framework agreement represents a major step toward resolving one of the most significant issues that remain between the parties in reaching agreement on a new coast-wide contract.

The PMA has guaranteed employment to any registered clerks impacted by technology that they can continue to work as clerks until they reach retirement.  The association also indicated to the ILWU that it was prepared to discuss a significant pension enhancement for all ILWU members as part of the overall agreement.

“The Union made it clear that a pension increase for all of its members was a critical priority.  We heard them and are prepared to include that in our final agreement,” Miniace said.  “I am hopeful that the Union will look at the entire package as a principled compromise on job security and technology that are the center of these negotiations,” he added.

At the Union’s request, the PMA provided a detailed question-and-answer document related to the application of the framework to implement technology.  “We spelled out in great detail how this framework will be applied,” Miniace said. “It is important to provide as much detail and clarity as possible,” he added.

The issues that remain to be resolved include the union’s demand for expanded jurisdiction and minimum manning quotas.  As it related to additional job jurisdiction, the PMA has informed the Union that it is not in the position to assign jobs currently occupied by other employees who are either represented by a different union or have chosen not to be represented by any union.

As to manning, the industry wants to maintain the current contract principle of not being required to hire unnecessary clerks. 

It is anticipated that the ILWU will spend several days reviewing the details of technology on the West Coast waterfront. 

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