A strike by the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) is causing disruptions at four major Florida ports: JAXPORT in Jacksonville, Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, PortMiami, and Port Tampa Bay.
The strike, which began Tuesday, involves tens of thousands of union members along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts who are demanding higher wages and improved working conditions.
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The strike primarily affects containerized cargo, including essential goods like:
- Consumer goods: Clothing, furniture, automobiles
- Construction and hurricane supplies: Materials for rebuilding after storms
- Medical supplies
- Perishable goods: Fruits, vegetables, and seafood
This has raised concerns about potential delays in getting crucial supplies to communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. The Florida Ports Council emphasized its “genuine concern about getting much-needed supplies to storm-ravaged communities in Florida and up the Eastern seaboard.”
Key Impacts on Florida Ports:
- JAXPORT: Approximately one-third of operations affected.
- Port Everglades: Delays expected at two of its five terminals, with 41% of cargo operations impacted.
- PortMiami: 50% of cargo at three container terminals affected.
Cruises, fuel, and bulk cargo shipments are not expected to be impacted.
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The ILA is seeking a $5-an-hour annual raise over the next six years, along with protections against automation and royalties on containers. President Biden has urged both sides to reach a swift agreement, emphasizing the critical role dockworkers play in hurricane relief efforts. He also warned against any price gouging by foreign ocean carriers during the strike.
Negotiations between the ILA and the United States Maritime Alliance, which represents shipping lines and port operators, are ongoing.
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