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West coast employers call for federal mediator to fix dock talks

US WEST coast waterfront employers of the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) have called for federal mediation in stalled talks with the International Longshore and Warehouse Union.

"After seven months of negotiations, we remain far apart on many issues," said PMA spokesman Wade Gates.

"At the same time, the union continues its slowdowns, walk-offs and other actions that are having impacts on shippers, truck drivers and other local workers - with no end in sight.

"It is clear that the parties need outside assistance to bridge the substantial gap between us,?Mr Gates said.

Many trade groups representing retailers, farmers and other businesses, as well as legislators, have previously called for mediation, some appealing to President Barack Obama for direct intervention to end the impasse.

Many trade groups representing retailers, farmers and other businesses, as well as legislators, have previously called for mediation, some appealing the President Barack Obama for intervention to end the impasse.

There is now a build up of ships at San Francisco-Oakland, reports American Shipper. Oakland says it is facing unprecedented traffic, and the Coast Guard said it is running out of space to anchor large containerships in San Francisco Bay.

There were 18 ships at anchor off the port in Anchorage 9 in South San Francisco Bay Monday morning, including 11 containerships, said Captain Greg Stump, captain of the port for Coast Guard Sector San Francisco.