Calls Intensify for Revitalized Shipbuilding Industry in North America
Annapolis, MD (PRWEB) July 27, 2016 -- For decades, the domestic shipbuilding and repair industries "were in decline due to overseas competition, where cheap labor and non-existent job site standards created an unfair competitive advantage for foreign shipbuilders," according the United Association of Plumbers, Pipefitters, Sprinkler Fitters, Welders and HVACR Technicians (UA). Delegates to the UA's 39th General Convention will consider the issue of domestic shipbuilding during the union's 39th General Convention, to be held in San Diego, CA, August 1-5, 2016.
In a resolution submitted to the 3,000 delegates to the convention, the UA notes that "despite these challenges, the U.S. shipbuilding industry continues to employ 500,000 American workers in 300 facilities across 27 states." According to the resolution, "This activity adds nearly $100 billion to the U.S. economy each year."
The resolution also reads, in part: “the future of the economies and national security of both the United States and Canada depend upon further investment and expansion of domestic shipbuilders and repairers, so that both countries can address issues such as enlarging their fleet of ice breaking ships in the Arctic Ocean, modernizing their naval combat vessels, and meeting the growing need for product tankers to handle the increase in domestic oil and gas production.”
The resolution, which will be discussed and debated by delegates to the convention, calls for “increased investment in and expansion of shipbuilding and repair in the United States and Canada,” as well as increased unionization of the men and women employed in this sector.
About the United Association
Founded in 1889, the United Association of Union Plumbers, Pipefitters, Sprinkler Fitters, Welders and HVACR Technicians (UA) is a multi-craft union whose members are engaged in the fabrication, installation and servicing of piping systems. There are over 410,000 members affiliated with the UA throughout North America, Australia, and Ireland, including over 340,000 UA members belonging to more than 300 local unions in the United States and Canada. The theme of the 39th General Convention is Built on Excellence.
***Media instructions: Any media wishing to cover the convention, which will be held at the San Diego Convention Center August 1-5, 2016, should contact Rick Terven, 410-269-2000. After August 1, media should contact Genie Ford, 703-298-7664, onsite contact during the convention.
Rick Terven, United Association, http://ua.org, +1 (703) 298-7664, [email protected]
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