February 24, 2015 - Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service Acting Director Allison Beck issued the following statement on February 23 regarding the tentative agreement reached between representatives of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association covering operations at 29 U.S. ports on the Pacific coast:
"I am extremely pleased to announce today that after extensive negotiations and mediation
provided by the FMCS and with the support and assistance of Secretary of Labor Tom Perez,
Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker, and Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, representatives
of the ILWU and PMA have tentatively agreed to a new contract, resolving all outstanding
issues that divided them and that have affected operations at U.S. west coast ports. Due to the
complexity of the issues the parties had to address, these have been lengthy and at times difficult
negotiations. The parties persevered over a long and challenging process and were ultimately
successful in averting any further situations that could have been disruptive to shipping
operations and to the nation's economy.
As a result of their efforts, shippers can expect that normal operations will be restored as soon as
possible at our nation's west coast ports. At the FMCS, we are proud and honored that we were
able to assist the parties and contribute to this successful negotiation.
I want especially to acknowledge the extraordinary contributions of FMCS Deputy Director
Scot Beckenbaugh, who led our Agency's efforts in assisting the ILWU and PMA in their negotiation,
and I especially want to thank Secretary Perez and Secretary Pritzker for their leadership these past
few days. We are grateful for their efforts and for their commitment to bringing this significant
negotiation to a positive resolution."
Please be assured that AIReS is monitoring the situation closely and will advise any changes. If you have any questions, please contact your AIReS representative.
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Aires delivers best-in-class global and domestic relocation solutions and mobility program management. Having been recognized by The Forum for Expatriate Management, the Better Business Bureau, and the Stevie Awards for organic growth methodology, excellent client/vendor partnerships, and leading-edge proprietary technology, Aires focuses on people, process, and technology to deliver world-class service. The company has also achieved ISO 9001, ISO 14001, FIDI-FAIM, C-TPAT, and Privacy Shield certifications and registrations. Clients are assured a focus on quality and customer service excellence when partnering with Aires. For more information, please visit www.aires.com.
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