WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) – Thousands of port workers may go on strike again as we head into the new year.
On January 15, a temporary deal expires between the International Longshoremen’s Association and United States Maritime Alliance, which has the potential to impact ports around the country.
The tentative agreement was made after a three-day port strike in October made its way up the Gulf and East Coasts, causing workers in Wilmington to walk off the job.
On October 3rd, the deal led to a 62% wage increase over a six-year contract for dockworkers.
However, their demand was twofold.
In addition to higher pay, automation is still a sticking point, with workers fearing their jobs could be replaced by machines.
“It’s a very, very sticky situation when you think about it,” Industry Expert Thomas Fellows said.
Fellows believes if the strike starts up again, everyone could feel the pinch.
“I would say at the 15 to 20 day mark is …