The federal mediator who twice succeeded in extending contract talks as strike deadlines loomed issued a statement today praising Daggett and USMX Chairman James Capo for coming to terms.

The USMX and the ILA issued a joint statement in which Capo said he was “obviously pleased,” by the agreement. Daggett was quoted as calling it, “a great contract.”

Details of the six-year deal released by the two sides included: a $1-an-hour increase in shippers’ contribution to health benefit funds; protection against job cuts resulting from new technology; and continued ILA representation of truck chassis maintenance workers.

The agreement will now be presented to rank-and-file union members for a ratification vote, and to employers for their approval.

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