PortMiami Is Getting Ready For A Possible Workers’ Strike That Would Cost The Business Billions

FLORIDA: Following the breakdown of talks for a new six-year contract, PortMiami is “readying” its seaport for a possible union strike on Tuesday. Commissioners received a memo from Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava on Monday detailing the preparations being made as workers approached the picket lines. The message states, in part, that “the Port is partnering with its industry collaborators, consisting of law enforcement, to ensure safety and security of all port users and operations,” and “the County encourages the rights of the workers to participate in collective bargaining.”

Talks Have Come To A Standstill

At least 14 ports, including Port Everglades & Port Miami in South Florida, could close as a result of the work stoppage, which runs from Maine to Texas. The United States Maritime Alliance’s refusal to increase salaries and shield union members from robots replacing them, according to the International Stevedores Association, is the reason why talks have come to a standstill.

But the Alliance submitted an unfair labor practice complaint with the National Labor Relations Board, charging the union with declining to bargain, early this month. On Tuesday, if the sides are unable to come to a contract by Monday night, the strike will start. There might be serious economic fallout. Until the strike ends, all cargo containing supplies such as food, electronics, building materials, and more will stop at ports.

ILA National President Harold Daggett declared, “Let’s get a contract and let’s move on because in today’s world, I’ll person with a disability you.” “These businesses ought to include us in their billion-dollar profits. They are where they are because of us. Now they wish to get rid of us. It isn’t equitable. An industry loss of over $4 billion a day is predicted by Craig Austin, an associate professor of the logistics & supply management at Florida International University.

If A Strike Goes On, Shortages & Price Increases Could Occur

“It’s a substantial sum of money, even if you don’t plan to pay these employees.” Consequently, the question is, “When do you settle?” stated Austin. If the strike goes on, shortages and price increases could occur in a matter of weeks. Austin claims that stores ordered extra supplies ahead of time in an attempt to avoid the walkout. However, given that between 60% and 80% of total consumer goods arrive in the United States via ship, the consequences of a large-scale labor stoppage are certain.

ILA hasn’t had a coastwide strike since 1977. According to the union, it lasted for about 3 months. Austin stated, “A working family will have to pay extra for the stuff they get, and they won’t be able to find some things.” What other options are there? There aren’t any. On Tuesday morning, employees are anticipated to begin picketing.