LONGVIEW, Wash. (AP) — A conflict over Longshore union jobs at the Port of Longview, Wash., grain terminal is flaring up again with the arrest of protesters blocking railroad tracks.
Cowlitz County sheriff’s spokesman Grover Laseke (LAY’-seek-ee) says several people were arrested Wednesday for trespassing.
At least two people were treated after being hit with pepper spray.
A dozen officers in riot gear stood guard along the tracks as a grain train finally entered the terminal.
International Longshore and Warehouse Union Local 21 President Dan Coffman says two Longshore officers and about 10 wives and mothers of Longshore workers were arrested.
ILWU believes its members have the right to work at the new terminal. EGT Development has hired another firm that is staffing with workers from a different union, Portland-based Operating Engineers Local 701.
