ILWU-shipping firms
keep talking on W.Coast

From staff and wire reports

Negotiators for a new labor contract for dock workers along the West Coast spent most of the weekend at the bargaining table and were expected to meet again today.

The Pacific Maritime Association, representing the management of more than 90 stevedoring and shipping companies, said there were some slowdowns at major ports.

"However, all ports are operating and cargo is moving," the PMA said in a statement.

Meeting Saturday and yesterday, "both parties exchanged proposals on issues and meaningful dialogue was held," the PMA said.

The PMA contract with the International Longshore and Warehouse Union expired July 1 and the union is working without a contract.

An ILWU unit stopped ships from loading or unloading at Port of Oakland for two days last week, a move that caused Matson Navigation Co. and Sea-Land Service Inc. to alter their schedule for Hawaii sailings.