Sept. 23, 2002 Bargaining Update

The PMA backed off from its lockout threats Thursday, clearing the way for the two sides to return to the table on Friday.  After working on Saturday, the ILWU team presented its latest technology proposal.  The PMA continues to reject Union language that would prevent the outsourcing of ILWU clerks’ work.  The PMA technology subcommittee agreed to submit the ILWU’s concerns over jurisdiction and technology framework to the Executive Committee on Sunday.

Both sides returned to the table Monday afternoon to discuss the PMA Executive Committee’s position on the technology agreement.  Technology is a critical issue in the negotiations, and now is the time to reach agreement.  A technology agreement could lead to a resolution of the contract dispute.