The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) welcomed news that negotiators for the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) have reached a tentative agreement on chassis maintenance and repair, a key issue in concluding a new waterfront contract at West Coast ports.
Kurt Nagle, AAPA’s president and CEO, representing the unified and collective voice of the seaport industry in the Americas, said the association has been working hard to advocate for a quick, fair and equitable settlement of a West Coast port labor contract. This includes supporting freight industry letters to President Obama…as well as sending one of its own on Dec. 17...to encourage the Administration to assist in the contract talks by assigning federal mediators.
“We’re pleased and encouraged with the reported progress toward a successful conclusion of these protracted labor negotiations,” said Mr. Nagle. “Ports are a critical part of the American supply chain and economy, with 12.5 percent of the U.S. GDP tied to the efficient movement of goods through our West Coast ports alone in 2013.”
Overall, across the nation, cargo moving through America’s ports is responsible for more than 13 million jobs and over $200 billion in federal, state and local tax revenue.
“Ensuring that cargo moves efficiently through all of our ports must be a national priority and isn’t just a West Coast issue,” Mr. Nagle continued. “The faster the two sides in the West Coast port labor contract negotiations can reach a just, long-term agreement, the sooner our system of ports can get back to ensuring the efficient delivery of goods, jobs, international competitiveness and overall prosperity that our nation has come to depend upon.”