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Both Sides Said Reviewing Longshoremen Contract Proposals

"Not surprisingly, no agreement was reached at this early stage of the bargaining" in the talks last month between the U.S. Maritime Exchange and the International Longshoremen's Association, said USMX Chairman James Capo in a memo to members. (See ITT's Online Archives 12070306).

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But Capo said "significant discussions were held on several critical items of importance to both sides" and "we plan to resume negotiations the week of July 16, 2012, in Florida." In the meantime, he said, USMX and ILA representatives will review each other's initial proposals on wages, benefits, work rules, jurisdiction and other issues, for a contract to replace the only scheduled to expire Sept. 30.

"While clearly there are many issues to be resolved, I am confident that both sides recognize the importance of reaching an agreement," Capo said.