The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) today warmly welcomes the news that the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have reached a tentative agreement on a new six-year Master Contract, narrowly averting strike action that would have crippled US East and Gulf Coast ports.
This breakthrough, which comes ahead of the January 15 deadline, will extend the current contract by a month while the ratification process is underway.
Paddy Crumlin, ITF President and Dockers’ Section Chair, hailed the ILA’s resolve:
“This agreement is a testament to the ILA’s militancy—from leadership to the rank-and-file—in holding the line and ensuring workers’ demands could not be ignored. Their determination guaranteed that key issues—especially job security and safe working conditions—remain front and centre.
“The international dockers’ movement and labour movement were watching every step, standing ready to show our unwavering solidarity if needed. The ILA has once again proven the power of unity and collective action.”
Stephen Cotton, ITF General Secretary, described the deal as a standard-setter for other employers, underscoring the importance of genuine worker involvement in the adoption of new technologies to create more secure supply chains:
“We congratulate the ILA and its membership on reaching this landmark tentative agreement with USMX. It shows that when workers are genuinely at the table—shaping and implementing technological change—supply chains are stronger, more resilient, and ultimately fairer for everyone.
“The ILA-USMX contract should serve as a model for employers worldwide. By involving workers in the decision-making process, we not only strengthen the industry and protect jobs, but we also ensure a fair deal for all involved.”
The ITF commends both the ILA and USMX for averting a potentially disruptive port shutdown that could have had wide-reaching impacts on workers, local communities, businesses, and the broader global supply chain.
At a time when supply chain stability has never been more important, this agreement safeguards thousands of livelihoods through a framework for implementing technologies that will create more jobs while modernization of East and Gulf Coast ports.
“We look forward to the successful ratification and implementation of the contract. The ITF and our affiliate dockers’ unions worldwide will continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the ILA and offer support whenever called upon,” Crumlin concluded.
Image: Reuters
