Sunday , December 11 , 2011
Occupy Movements in western US States plan to attempt to shut down major west coast ports on Monday Dec 12th

Occupy Movements in western US States plan to attempt to shut down major west coast ports on Monday Dec 12th.

The Maritime Division and our Security team, has provided the following update on the situation to keep the port open for business December 12th, and to ensure the safety and security of all concerned.

- The Occupy Oakland movement has called for a “blockade” of the Port of Oakland, which basically means marching on the streets and blocking entrances to ocean and rail terminals in an effort to shut down operations.

- The timing of the attempted blockade on December 12 is a moving target, but the latest information is that it may occur both in the morning and afternoon and then into the evening, timed to impact labor shift changes.

- Similar plans for a blockade have been called for the ports in Los Angeles/Long Beach, Portland, Seattle, Tacoma, and San Diego.

- The blockade organizers have created a web site at www.westcoastportshutdown.org, which we are monitoring along with their other avenues of outreach via the Internet and social media.

- ILWU leadership has released a statement, which says in part:    “To be clear, the ILWU, the Coast Longshore Division, and Local 21 are not coordinating independently or in conjunction with any self?proclaimed organization or group to shut down any port or terminal, particularly as it relates to our dispute with EGT in Longview.”

- Senior Port management and commissioners have been meeting regularly with representatives of local and federal law enforcement, the City of Oakland, and key tenants to discuss possible scenarios and develop response protocols, making it clear that our objective is to keep the port open with minimal to no operational disruption.

- Maritime Security Team will be meeting with the Facility Security Officers of seven marine terminals next week to coordinate plans. It has also developed response plans with the U.S. Coast Guard and Department of Homeland Security.

- Prior to December 12, the Port will activate its Emergency Operations Center, which will operate 24/7. The EOC will be staffed by representatives of all relevant Port divisions, who will monitor and respond to the protester actions, serve as a clearinghouse for intelligence, liaise with law enforcement and tenants, and communicate event status to our stakeholders. The Maritime Team will work in shifts at the EOC and provide you with updates as they occur. The City of Oakland will also "stand up" its Emergency Operations Center.

- Coordination with law enforcement to vigorously enforce the city’s No Trespassing/No Loitering ordinances in and around the Port area on December 12.

- The importance of keeping the Port open and operational in Oakland is vital as a reliable gateway for international commerce.