International Longshoremen's Association Local 1588

Local 1588 members overwhelmingly voted down the proposed Master Contract Extension today by more than a two to one margin. 147 members voted No to 59 Yes. A high level of debate around the contract in the Local 1588, led to a high level of understanding of the pros and cons of the contract. Despite an intense campaign from the International, including a last minute appearance by Richard Hughes and several top International officers at Global on Monday, members concerns about the flaws in the contract prompted the strong opposition. 1588 members were concerned about weak protections against technology that could wipe out Longshore jobs, inadequate progress on the wage tiers, and tapping into benefit and health insurance funds to pay for raises.

Based on preliminary, unofficial reports from 15other Locals indicate a strong No Vote, but the Yeses likely to prevail.