ZIM Integrated Shipping fires back at SAJ

Shipping line ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Limited has taken issue with the intervention of the Shipping Association of Jamaica (SAJ) in its ongoing payment dispute with workers employed at the Port of Kingston.

The workers provide lashing services to ZIM and other shipping lines at the port.

The SAJ has been lobbying for the money to be paid over and has taken the matter to court.

READ: Talks underway to prevent possible shutdown of Kingston’s seaport

In a statement, ZIM questioned the actions of the SAJ.

Full Statement

ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Limited (ZIM) notes the press release issued by the Shipping Association of Jamaica on Friday, January 11, 2019, on the matter of possible industrial action at the Kingston Container Terminal (KCT).  
 
ZIM’s position on the issue of "cess" payments claimed by the Shipping Association of Jamaica as of the handover of KCT to Kingston Freeport Terminal Limited ("KFTL") is well known and remains unchanged. 
 
ZIM has an all-inclusive contract with KFTL for the provision of all services at KCT inclusive of lashing services. ZIM does not have a contract with the SAJ for the provision of lashing services at KFTL.
 
The SAJ's attempt to superficially transform a commercial dispute into an industrial relations dispute, while the commercial dispute is in front of the Supreme Court and the parties have entered a mediation process, is nothing but an abuse of the process.
 
ZIM wishes to thank the Port Authority and its CEO Professor Gordon Shirley for its role in attempting to mediate a resolution of the issue.

Without derogating from the above, ZIM is reserving its rights in relation to the said matter and nothing herein shall be regarded as waiver of any rights by ZIM. 

ZIM has a long record of fruitful activity in Jamaica. We pride ourselves on our contribution to the local economy and community, as well as on our ethical business practices, recognised many times in the past. 

Zim is looking for a fast resolution of this matter and will continue to provide its customers with the highest levels of service.

We want to hear from you! Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169, email us at editors@gleanerjm.com or onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com.