Crane breakdowns hinder docks as arbitration nears

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17: Equipment malfunctions at Hamilton Docks have further delayed the loading and unloading of ships.

The breakdown of two cranes on Monday afternoon came during the overtime ban by dock workers.

The industrial action has meant the Bermuda Islander and the Oleander have returned to the U.S. with far fewer containers than normal to ensure they do not fall too far behind schedule.

Shipping sources told the Bermuda Sun that if the ban continues there may not be enough empty containers in U.S. to bring back all the cargo and supplies that are bound for Bermuda. This could mean further as they will have to lease empty containers.

Howard Pitcher, from Bermuda Container Lines, said: “The break-down of the cranes on Monday further exacerbated the delays.

“Obviously while the machines were not working we lost valuable time when the containers could have been unloaded. It was not until Tuesday morning that we were able to get everything off the Oleander. And in order to leave on time on Tuesday we left with 80 fewer empty containers than we would normally.”

Talks between Stevedoring Services and the Bermuda Industrial Union to reach an agreement are still ongoing.

While Labour Minister Kim Wilson has referred the dispute to arbitration to keep disruption to a minimum.

Peter Aldrich, CEO of Stevedoring Services Ltd, told the Bermuda Sun: “I was aware that one crane broke down on Monday afternoon – I had not been made aware of a second crane.

Disruption

“This obviously has a bigger effect at the present time when ever hour we can work is important.

“As the overtime ban continues there will be some minor disruption. The schedule is a little bit behind.

“The men are continuing to work hard and they are doing a good job.

“I doubt whether arbitration proceedings will begin before the end of the week but am hopeful this situation can be resolved as soon as possible.”

Minister Wilson said she was still hopeful that the two sides would reach an agreement before the matter went to arbitration.

She added: “On Monday, pursuant to section 8 of the Labour Relations Act 1975, I have referred the matter to the Permanent Arbitration Tribunal for settlement. I also  invited each party to nominate one of the members of the panel to serve as a Member of the Tribunal. As well as to provide to me in writing, by close of business August 18, 2011, feedback on what should be included in the Terms of Reference for the Tribunal before I finalize same.

“In the event that either party does not comply, I will proceed to settle the terms of reference based on the feedback supplied by the responding party as well as choose a nominee on that parties stead. The fact that this matter has been referred to the PAT does not preclude the parties from attempting to reach an amicable solution.

“In fact, referral to the PAT,  exists in circumstances where a labour dispute exists.

“I am still hopeful that the parties will reach a settlement on their own.”