ALBAWABA - US dock workers and port operators announced suspending their strike on Thursday after reaching an agreement for a 62% pay increase. The strike, which lasted for three days, caused significant shipping disruptions along the East Coast and Gulf Coast of the United States.
US port strike comes to an end
According to Reuters, the initial agreement includes a 62% pay increase over six years for port workers, raising average wages from $39 to nearly $63 per hour.
It is worth noting that the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) workers union was initially seeking a 77% wage increase, while the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) offered only a 50% increase.
“Today’s tentative agreement on a record wage and an extension of the collective bargaining process represents critical progress towards a strong contract. I congratulate the dockworkers from the ILA, who deserve a strong contract after sacrificing so much to keep our ports open during the pandemic,” US President Joe Biden commented.
According to Reuters, the initial agreement includes a 62% pay increase over six years for port workers, raising average wages from $39 to nearly $63 per hour. (AFP)
The final agreement resulted in the suspension of the largest strike in nearly half a century, which caused significant shipping disruptions along the East Coast and Gulf Coast of the United States. The strike impacted the unloading of container ships from Maine to Texas and threatened shortages of supplies, from fruits to auto parts.
The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) workers union stated that their main contract will be extended until January 15, 2025 to allow time for negotiation and resolution of all outstanding issues.
According to the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) workers union: "Effective immediately, all current job actions will cease and all work covered by the Master Contract will resume.”
