APMT: Container terminal Callao, Peru operating normally

Roll-on/roll-off and bulk ships are being worked with Peru’s navy helping to work general cargo ships after a brief strike by dockworkers.    APM Terminals said Monday its container terminal in Callao Peru is open again an operating normally.
   Last week, SUTRAMPORPC, a dockworker union in Callao, Peru, began a strike against APM Terminals’s North Pier terminal, saying it was taking action in response to “intransigence of the company to improve their collective working conditions.”
   APMT disputed the union account, saying the labor disagreement stems from APMT’s plan to implement an electronic roster system in full accordance with Peruvian law, and in the interest of Peruvian port and national security.
   “APM Terminals categorically rejects the false accusations of anti-union and anti-labor actions, which have been made by individuals who seek to maintain control of work allocation at the general cargo facility for their own advantage, at the risk of port security standards.
   “We are taking a stand on security, safety and transparency of our port workers,” said APMT.
   The terminal operator said today roll-on/roll-off and bulk ships were also being worked and that “Operations are improving with more workers from Peru navy assisting general cargo operations.”
   Peru’s Navy is providing 70 workers a shift to work general cargo ships, which is allowed by Peruvian law, and APMT is holding daily meetings with the Peru Minister of Labor.
   “We have good relations with many of our port workers and want to keep the port operating. We believe majority of stevedores want to return to work,” APMT said.