Watchmen, ports of LA/LB avoid strike, extend contract through end of week

A possible work stoppage at the West Coast ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach (LA/LB) has been avoided in the short term after the union and the ports agreed to extend the existing contract until midnight Friday, 6 November.

About 250 port watchmen at the ports of LA/LB are threatening to strike, which could bring operations to a halt at eight terminals in the port complex.

Members of International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Local 26 have authorized a strike but agreed with the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA), which represents employers, to extend the deadline.

It is the second extension after originally planning to strike the previous weekend.

This story was originally published by Hellenic Shipping News. Read the full story at Hellenic Shipping News →