The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) has filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in order to address a long-standing legal battle with the Oregon affiliate of the International Container Terminal Services Inc (ICTSI). The union, representing U.S. dockworkers, listed its assets and liabilities between $1 million and $10 million in a filing made on September 30. ILWU International President Willie Adams stated that the union can no longer afford to defend against ICTSI’s aggressive litigation tactics and intends to use the chapter 11 process to find a resolution. ICTSI has not yet commented on the matter.
This move by ILWU comes as it faces a trial regarding allegations of illegal work slowdowns at the Port of Portland, which was previously operated by an ICTSI affiliate. The union has over 4,000 members in the United States and Canada, and it plans to file the necessary motions to maintain its cash management system as part of the reorganization process. Despite this bankruptcy filing, ILWU recently ratified a new six-year contract for 22,000 U.S. dockworkers, which includes improved pay and benefits.
The bankruptcy filing serves as a strategy for ILWU to address the ongoing litigation with ICTSI’s Oregon affiliate. By entering chapter 11 protection, the union aims to bring closure to the decade-long legal battle and ensure its ability to continue working on behalf of its members and the community. ILWU has exhausted numerous attempts to resolve the matter with ICTSI, leading to this decision. Despite the challenges it currently faces, ILWU remains committed to delivering positive outcomes for its dockworker members and maintaining its important role in the industry.