Confrontation avoided for now as talks are set to restart
A showdown between DP World and the Maritime Union of Australia appears has been avoided at present.
With tensions running high and statements made indicating a confrontation might be on the cards, both sides changed their tunes in the early evening after “a high level meeting”.
Talks are due to resume tomorrow.
“Both parties have agreed to cease further action and re-enter negotiations relating to DP World Australia’s Fremantle terminal,” DP World says.
“We are confident that we will reach an agreement in the coming weeks.
“Following the four hour meeting scheduled for 12-4 pm on Thursday, 31 July, work will resume at the terminal.
“In the immediate term, the terminal will be staffed at appropriate levels to handle the work required to resume handling vessels.
“The first vessel calling at the terminal will be ANL Whyalla on Tuesday, 5 August 2014.”
According to DP World, it withdrew the Fremantle terminal lockout option after the MUA withdrew plans for rolling stoppages.
“The MUA has also agreed not to undertake industrial action while negotiations continue,” a spokeswoman says.
“Work will resume at the terminal which will be staffed at appropriate levels to handle vessels.
“Both parties are agreed that there would be no media comment while negotiations are in progress.”