The master agreement between International Longshoremen’s Association and the U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX) is nearing expiration and it is expected ILA members will strike on October 1. A total of 36 ports on the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts would be affected.
The information currently available indicates government vessels and tankers are not supposed to be impacted. Details were under discussion at various meetings at all levels throughout the weekend. This is a dynamic situation, and as reliable information becomes available, we will provide updates for American Maritime Officers members and applicants.
AMO officers are instructed to adhere to the following guidelines:
- Never cross a picket line.
- If you are ashore and separated from your vessel when a picket line is established, do not cross a picket line to return to your vessel.
- If your vessel is in port when a picket line is established, or if you have any specific questions or reports of specific occurrences the union needs to address, please contact one of the AMO officials listed below.
Vessel operating companies have the ability to restrict you to the vessel. AMO will pursue restricted-to-vessel pay due to you in accordance with our agreements.
We are still in communication with our operating companies regarding how to conduct crew changes under various potential scenarios. We will provide additional guidance as this situation evolves.
Capt. Willie Barrere
National President
American Maritime Officers
