Some progress made in contract talks between LA, Long Beach port clerks and shipping firms

Talks continue as clerks strike at SoCal ports

LOS ANGELES — Negotiations are set to resume for shipping companies and clerical workers who have been striking for seven days at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.

Union negotiator John Fageaux (FUH’-go) Jr. said negotiations are planned for later Wednesday.

He said the two sides made some progress Tuesday on seniority and grievance matters but remain far apart on core issues.

The union represents about 900 clerical workers and is seeking job protections. The Harbor Employers Association, representing the shippers, insists it has guaranteed no layoffs.

The clerical workers process paperwork for cargo shipments. The strike has caused no apparent disruptions in shipping.