On January 5, 2015, the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) joined the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) in their request to bring in federal mediation to resolve contract negotiations.  This announcement comes after eight months of the ILWU working without a contract, stalled talks between the two groups, high tensions, and rising congestion along the West Coast.   Although the PMA requested intervention in late December, the ILWU only joined in this request yesterday.  The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) will send in a senior negotiator as soon as possible.  Although the FMCS cannot dictate and enforce an agreement, the representatives will help to bring the issues of both sides to resolution.

We will continue to closely monitor the situation and advise you of any important updates.