ILWU Statement:  Sept. 18, 2002

PMA’s assertion that the ILWU is engaged in a work slowdown in Long Beach against Stevedoring Services of America (SSA) is unfounded.  The situation in Long Beach stems from heavy increases in cargo volume over the past three months.  These increases were caused by shippers trying to ship their goods prior to any slowdowns, strikes or lockouts.  The PMA and the West Coast Waterfront Coalition (WCWC) created this increased volume by incessantly spreading the hysterical message that labor problems on the docks were imminent.

Because of the heavy volume of work, specially trained skilled crane operators are in short supply.  The ILWU/PMA joint training program has continuously trained additional operators, but has not been able to keep pace with this increase in work.  Making matters worse, the PMA has suspended Labor Relations meetings in Los Angeles.  Those meetings were designed to address labor problems such as this, but PMA apparently sees no purpose for constructive communications with the Union.

The shortages at SSA were further compounded by the fact that a fatality occurred on September 3 at its facility.  The problem of safety at SSA’s facilities has been a growing problem.  Over the past six months, five ILWU members have been killed on the docks. SSA insists on certified crane operators, but the PMA’s program of non-cooperation has created shortages.

Miniace’s statement that this problem at SSA is a threat to the national economy is preposterous.  The U.S. economy is not dependent on one ship at one terminal in one port.  Miniace is again using hysterical propaganda to create fear and deceive the public.  His credibility continues to erode.