 |
PMA SHUTS DOWN WESTERN PORTS INDEFINITELY
PALO ALTO, CA - (September 30, 2002) - The Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) Board of Directors decided yesterday afternoon not to order any labor at any terminal operations on the West Coast beginning last night. This "lockout" action will continue indefinitely until the union meets several conditions, namely that it agrees to an extension of the old (expired) contract or agrees to a new contract at the bargaining table. PMA has also made an official request of the Federal Mediation Service for assistance in this labor dispute.
Meanwhile, we know that many public officials--Governors, federal and state legislators, and local officials such as mayors have attempted to intercede and get both sides back to the table. The White House is watching these events carefully but has not taken any action.
Intervention may include influencing both sides to seek the help of a mediator and agree to a contract extension while they continue to negotiate (a preferable option); or it may be the use of the Taft-Hartley Act, which allows the president to order a cooling off period in the case of a national emergency.
Foodcomm International strongly depends on U.S. seaports, especially, West Coast ports where 65% of its imports are entered. Contingency steps are in place and are reviewed daily. These plans may only last a few days based on the limitations and unique characteristics of our perishable goods.
Disruptions may specifically affect Foodcomm and its customers. We pledge our best efforts in protecting the integrity of our goods and serving the critical concerns of our customers to the best of our capability. Every reasonable measure to provide on-going service will be afforded.
For the most up to date information contact Greg Davis, Foodcomm Operations Manager at (800) 445-4622 and visit our website, www.foodcomm.com. Also visit PMA www.pmanet.org the agreed official PWA/ILWU information source for negotiation updates.
###
###
