July 1, 1997
Dear Mr. Morris,
As a member of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union's delegation
to the 2nd International Dockworkers Conference in Montreal, we were
supportive of the passage of Resolution 1 for world-wide action taken on
behalf of the Merseyside Dockers. The plan of action includes that "All
unions represented at the 2nd International Dockworkers' Conference will
implement a twenty-four (24) hour work stoppage or whatever action they
have the possibility to take."
We would like to make you aware of the actions the ILWU has taken in
response to the plight of the Merseyside Port Dockers booted from the docks
in Liverpool.
On January 20, 1997, the ILWU held a one day work stoppage in the major
West Coast ports in conjunction with "World-wide Solidarity Day". The
members of Local 19 were proud to participate in this act of solidarity and
support for all of the besieged workers in our common profession,
especially the dockers in Liverpool.
In addition to that show of support, one year ago the membership of Local
19 voted to disburse $2500, and to assess themselves $12.00 per member per
month for the duration of the strike and forward the moneys to the
Liverpool dockers.
We have also written letters to our representatives in Congress advising
them of the situation and requesting they make an effort to convince the
new British Prime Minister to intervene positively in the Liverpool
dispute.
We understand that the ITF passed a resolution comparable to the Montreal
resolution, in support of Liverpool dockers at their convention this June
in Miami, Florida.
The Mersey Company's and British Government's actions in Liverpool has
represented a deplorable assault on working people. We have hosted several
Liverpool workers and their spouses at our membership meetings and we have
heard first hand of the grave adversity and personal calamity they have
endured.
As the TGWU Biennial Delegate Conference convenes next week, we look
forward to your delegates continued diligence in supporting the Liverpool
dockers and taking the necessary steps to help these workers get back their
jobs.
We send our best wishes for a successful and productive conference.
Fraternally yours,
I.L.W.U. LOCAL #19
Larry Hansen
President
