Federal Mediator Intervenes in West Coast Port Labor Dispute

A federal mediator is now involved in the West Coast port labor dispute that has slowed down shipments of agricultural products, according to agweb.com.

The Pacific Maritime Association (PMA), which represents shipping companies, said West Coast ports are facing “complete gridlock,” with few ships going in and out. Members of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union have been working without a contract since July 1, 2014. The PMA accuses union members of intentionally slowing down trucks at the ports, while the union says shippers have cut workers’ shifts.

The White House sent a mediator to help negotiate a solution, but, according to the Agriculture Transportation Coalition, a mediator cannot impose a resolution. Since the mediator joined the talks last week, no further agreements have been reached over the long-expired contract.

The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) this week sent a letter to PMA and union leaders, urging quick reconciliation to get meat exports back on track. NPPC says slowdowns resulting from the disagreement affect meat exporters significantly, noting that they are running out of room to store pork, beef and poultry destined for export markets. The group said meat companies may be forced to shut or slow processing lines, which could have “catastrophic consequences for livestock producers, with animals ready for market taking space on farms.”