The dock workers’ strike may be over, but the AI ​​is still coming for their jobs

Remember the images of all the container ships idling off the coast due to COVID-19? I almost had a repeat performance…

Source: The New York Times

Due to a breakdown in contract negotiations, dock workers on the East Coast and Gulf of Mexico walked off the job last Tuesday morning. It was the first major pig strike in nearly 50 years.

It was a huge deal because the International Shipowners’ Association (ILA) represents 45,000 dock workers.

The liquidators were not only looking for better pay, but also job security. As we discussed last week, dock workers were worried that AI-based automation would eliminate their jobs. So the union rejected an offer that included a nearly 50 percent increase in wages because it retained language about automation and semi-automation.

Essentially, the strike prevented all container shipping to and from approximately 36 U.S. ports, including Baltimore and New York/New Jersey. These East and Gulf Coast ports handle about 50% of the goods shipped to and from the United States.

A two-week strike would have disrupted holiday sales and affected supply chains for medicine and other essential goods. Perishable items (such as bananas or mangoes) would have been the first victims. But carmakers have already warned of parts shortages.

Fortunately, the Lichers returned to work on Friday and their current contract has been extended until mid-January. After that, they will receive a 61.5% pay rise over the next six years, although they still have to complete the contract to ensure they are protected from automation.