**Tentative Deal Reached in Longshoremen’s Strike, But Automation Remains a Sticking Point**
A potential agreement to end the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) strike has been met with cautious optimism, but logistics experts warn that the deal is far from finalized. The union and port ownership have reached a tentative agreement on wage increases, but the contentious issue of port automation remains unresolved.
The ILA is seeking to restrict the use of automation at ports, with President Harold Daggett vowing to fight against the introduction of automation terminals. Daggett has characterized automation as a “cancer” that threatens to replace human workers, and has pledged to continue fighting against it.
However, port automation is already a reality at many US container ports, with all 10 of the largest ports using some form of automation technology to process and handle cargo. The Government Accountability Office has reported that at least one terminal at each port uses automation to track and communicate information on container movements.
The ILA’s opposition to automation is rooted in concerns about job security and the potential displacement of workers. However, some experts argue that automation can increase efficiency and productivity, while also improving safety and reducing labor costs.
The tentative deal has been reached after months of negotiations, but the issue of automation remains a major stumbling block. With only 100 days to reach a final agreement, logistics executives are wary of further strike action if a deal cannot be reached.
The outcome of these negotiations will have significant implications for the future of port operations in the US, and could set a precedent for the adoption of automation technology at ports around the world.
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