LabourNet does not have the original source for this report. However, we would like to point out that it does contain a factual error. Spokespersons for the ILWU have made clear that the action against the Columbus Canada is not a "union action" as such, but a "community action" from people in Los Angeles, who have mounted a picket against it. The ILWU longshoremen, although strongly supportative of the community action, are merely exercising their right under their contract to avoid the health and safety risk that crossing a picket line might pose!
Chris Bailey
LabourNet
12 May 1998. The London-based International Transport Workers Federation last night warned that another four container ships en route from Australia to the US could face bans by American waterfront unions by the end of this week.
ITF spokesman David Cockroft said the four ships, all loaded by Patrick's non-union workforce in Australia, were expected to reach US west coast destinations in the next few days.
Mr Cockroft said it was likely the union action against the Columbus Canada would continue. "I imagine the bans on the Columbus Canada won't end at Longbeach," Mr Cockroft said. "The ship is likely to get a similar reception when it goes to San Francisco, Seattle and Vancouver."
It is thought there are 23 ships which were loaded by non-union workers employed by Patrick between April 7 and May 4 this year. The shipping companies involved include Columbus, Mediterranean Shipping, the CGM Group, ANL and Coral Sea Shipping.
Mr Cockroft made it plain that caution was needed because of threatened legal action by Australia's competition watchdog Allan Fels. "The legal situation in Australia at the moment means we don't have a definitive list," Mr Cockroft said. "What we do know is that four ships which we believe are part of the (non-union) operation are likely to arrive soon on the US west coast. But what happens when they arrive we don't know."
