ILA makes ethics code permanent, hires appellate officer

ILA makes ethics code permanent, hires appellate officer    The International Longshoremen's Association said it is bolstering its internal reform efforts, which include making its code of ethics permanent, hiring an independent appellate officer, and expanding the term of service of its ethical practices counsel.
   Judge Milton Mollen, the union's ethical practices counsel since the union adopted its ethics code almost two years ago, has investigated numerous allegations against ILA representatives and suspended union officers charged with wrongdoing. The ethics code and Mollen's role are now a permanent part of the ILA constitution.
   Last week, the ILA also said it had retained retired U.S. Judge George C. Pratt as an independent appellate officer, who will have 'an important role in hearing any appeals from decisions made by the ILA's executive council from charges brought by Judge Mollen,' the ILA said in a statement.
   Pratt is a former judge from both the Second Circuit Court of Appeals and the Eastern District of New York. His newly created position will insure 'a strong system of 'checks and balances' for the ILA, allowing the ethical practices counsel to present cases, including evidence and witnesses, before an independent third party,' the ILA explained.
   The ILA has agreed that any decisions made by Pratt as its independent appellate officer 'would constitute the final decision of the ILA on any charges,' the union said.
   Pratt's appointment 'demonstrates that the ILA is serious about ridding corruption from our union,' said John Bowers, ILA president.