AFL-CIO Transportation Trades Department President Greg Regan joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast and discussed the importance of maintaining U.S. maritime ships as a matter of national security.
Donald Marcus, International President of the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P), recently testified to Congress about the issue and explained most international shipping is controlled by four foreign-owned companies. Regan talked about the importance of using “cargo preference” regulations that require federally shipped cargo be carried on vessels registered in the U.S. He said maintaining a network of U.S. flagged ships is critical for U.S. military operations is and a matter of national security.
Regan also gave an update on the tentative collective bargaining agreement reached between the railroads and rail workers' unions. Each of the 12 unions is reviewing the agreement according to the process dictated by their individual constitutions, he noted. Regan believes the ratification results should be available by the end of November or early December.
He also discussed the importance of having a two-person railroad crew.
Listen to the entire episode to learn more about these topics.