Drivers in Carson, Long Beach Have Walked off the Job

Port of Los Angeles truck drivers from three companies walked off the job in Carson and Long Beach today, launching a 36-hour strike to protest what they called "unfair labor practices" arising from their desire to join the Teamsters.

The work stoppage involving drivers from Green Fleet Systems, American Logistics International and Pacific 9 Transportation began at 5 a.m.

Drivers from Green Fleet Systems and American Logistics International said they were retaliated against for trying to join the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. Green Fleet Systems drivers carried out a similar 24- hour protest in August.

Drivers walked picket lines outside all three companies, some with signs that read, "Stop this unlawful war on workers.".

The group Justice for Port Drivers said the job action was meant to protest "unfair labor practices, including harassment, intimidation, and other violations of Federal labor laws."

Alex Cherin, a spokesman for Green Fleet and Pac 9, characterized the strikes as "the desperate acts of a group trying to force their agenda on an industry that time and time again has simply rejected them."

In remarks quoted by the Los Angeles Times, he said the majority of employees and drivers at Green Fleet do not want a union. He said the company offers its employees competitive wages and benefits.

"Because of this, and because of our demonstrated safety record, the overwhelming majority of our drivers vehemently and passionately have voiced their opposition to the current strike and organization effort," he said.

-- City News Service