Published: 13 Oct 2009
The International Longshore Association in the US have reached agreement with employers to extend their existing contract by three years, Lloyds List reports.
The union walked away from the negotiating table a month ago in dispute over new technology and pay.
"Under the deal, ILA members would get an immediate raise and the wage gap between newer ILA members and longstanding employees would narrow according to a staggered schedule that visualises parity in earnings after nine years on the job."
Lloyds reports the agreement on the controversial issue of technology calls for the standing committee to "analyse any economic impact on wages" and possible reassignment, retraining or severance of ILA members. After this analysis, the parties are to reconvene to negotiate a final resolution.
The amended agreement will run until September 30, 2012. The union's 18,500 general members will vote on the pact next month.
