/ Commissioners urge resolution of labor dispute

May 10, 2013

In an effort to bring both sides back to the negotiating table, Port of Vancouver Commissioners Jerry Oliver, Brian Wolfe and Nancy Baker sent a letter to the leaderships of United Grain Corporation (UGC) and ILWU Local 4 urging resolution of a labor dispute that began more than six months ago. In the letter dated May 1, 2013, the commissioners emphasize the competitive nature of international trade and remind both parties that a port’s “ability to move cargo safely and efficiently increases a port’s competitiveness, and when a port is successful, surrounding communities benefit.”

 Although not a negotiating party in the Grain Handlers Agreement, the port has consistently expressed its hope that the issue would be resolved peacefully and in a timely manner. The port also has been very clear in communicating its priorities during the dispute: to keep all parties safe, to protect property, and to keep the port open for business.

 Click here for a copy of the Commissioners’ letter to UGC and ILWU Local 4.