A clandestine assembly was convened on Sunday between principal figures from the International Longshoremen's Association and the United States Maritime Alliance, aiming to bridge the gap between the dockworkers' union and port proprietors on the contentious topic of port automation and its semi-automated counterparts. The outcome was a document emphasizing the generation of new roles for humans alongside the introduction of novel port technologies.
The eight-hour dialogue, uncovered by CNBC, was strategically scheduled before the formal negotiation's resumption, with a looming January 15 deadline to avert another dockworker strike. Insiders, speaking under the condition of anonymity, revealed that the discussion had previously stalled over automation. The newly drafted automation language is intended for review by the full bargaining committee on Tuesday, yet it raises apprehensions regarding potential increases in labor expenses and the feasibility of finalizing a comprehensive agreement on wages and automation.
Participants in the meeting included representatives from port terminals already employing the discussed technologies, such as rail-mounted gantry (RMG) cranes, with executives and union representatives from notable ports like the Port of New York and New Jersey, and the Port of Virginia, in attendance. The document from the meeting outlined the ILA's prerogative to incorporate union labor in the future to support new technologies, pledging to explore all technologies that enhance operator efficiency and productivity.
It highlighted the role of skilled human crane operators who utilize modern control systems, including cameras, alignment guides, anti-sway, and motion-dampening technologies, to achieve precision in port operations. The document referenced both semi-automated and manual RMG crane operations, underscoring the integration of automation in repetitive tasks while retaining human control over complex activities.
Despite the progress, concerns linger over the negotiation's specifics, particularly regarding the potential impact of new labor costs on port economics and the broader supply chain. A terminal operator voiced concerns over the necessity of proposed jobs and the inflationary pressure stemming from increased service prices.
The ILA has refrained from commenting on the discussions. The uncertainty persists on whether the USMX's full bargaining team will accept the proposed automation terms, amidst fears of another strike. The dialogue reflects the ongoing debate over balancing technological advancements with job preservation within the port sector.
Source: CNBC