Port of Oakland applauds likely OK of longshore pact extension

Oakland, Calif. – July 28, 2017: Port of Oakland officials today applauded word that West Coast longshore workers will likely approve a three-year contract extension.  The International Longshore and Warehouse Union said that early coastwide election results indicate support for extending an existing pact with waterfront employers through July 1, 2022.  Ratification of the vote is expected soon, the union said.

“This shows that the West Coast means business when it comes to moving cargo for our customers,” said Port of Oakland Executive Director Chris Lytle.  “We’re the most efficient, timely and cost-effective gateway for international trade and with a contract extension, we’re also the most dependable.”

The Port said a contract extension would ease concerns about labor-management disputes that can arise when waterfront contracts are negotiated.  Since the last West Coast contract was signed in 2015, labor relations have been good and productivity high, the Port said.  “We feel that a decision to extend the contract reflects improving relations and performance up and down the West Coast,” Mr. Lytle said.

Longshore workers load and unload ships at West Coast container ports.  They also handle cargo in marine terminals and process imports and exports moving through terminal gates.  They negotiate contracts with employers represented by the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA).  Both the PMA and ILWU expressed willingness to seek an extension of their current contract shortly after it was signed.

About the Port of Oakland:
The Port of Oakland oversees the Oakland seaport, Oakland International Airport, and 20 miles of waterfront including Jack London Square. Together with its business partners, the Port supports more than 73,000 jobs in the region and nearly 827,000 jobs across the United States. Connect with the Port of Oakland and Oakland International Airport through Facebook, or with the Port on Twitter, YouTube, and at www.portofoakland.com.