Technology at core of West Coast dock dispute is not new

摘要

Technology already in common use elsewhere is at the heart of the dispute that led to a shutdown of West Coast ports in late September. The Pacific Maritime Association, which represents employers at West Coast ports from San Diego to Seattle, ordered a lockout of union dockworkers Sept. 29, contending the union was engaged in illegal work slowdowns. On Oct. 8 the Bush Administration obtained a court order under the Taft-Hartley Act mat ended the 10-day lockout, but the dispute could erupt again following an 80-day cooling-off period.