Striking port workers return to work after union reaches tentative deal

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The United States economy and consumers across the country are breathing a little easier now that thousands of dockworkers headed back to work on Friday. This was one day after the longshoremen’s union agreed to suspend a strike until the new year. Gov. Phil Murphy applauded the deal. "Dockworkers are essential to the flow of goods into our country. I strongly encourage both parties to reach a permanent agreement that includes fair job protections,” Murphy stated. The International Longshoremen's Association, which represents 45,000 dockworkers, walked off the job on Tuesday after failing to reach an agreement with the U.S. Maritime Alliance on a new six-year contract. RELATED: Dockworkers' union suspends strike until Jan. 15 to allow time to negotiate new contract Union members want to earn more than the $55 per hour that the longshoremen are earning on the West Coast. They also want guarantees that automation of port equipment won't be increased. Port Authority officials say they will be working around the clock to catch up with productions, but they say they're not too worried. "While this could have had a much more significant impact if it went on longer. It is not unusual for the Port of New York and New Jersey to be closed for two or three days for winter storms," says Bethann Rooney, port director. If a new contract is not made by Jan. 15, thousands of dockworkers along the East and Gulf coasts could go on strike again. "