The International Longshore and Warehouse Union announced Friday that its members have approved their labor contract with West Coast ports, with 82 percent of votes in favor of ratification. Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners President Doug Drummond issued the following statement: “I would like to heartily congratulate the men and women of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union on their approval today of the new West Coast labor contract for ports including Long Beach. I would also like to extend my congratulations to the companies of the Pacific Maritime Association for their approval of the contract. "This new pact is terrific for management and labor, and proves that by working together, we can build a partnership that will continue to help to improve this economy and provide jobs all across the United States. "I’d also like to thank Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia and Port CEO Jon Slangerup for their part in urging everyone to reach this mutually beneficial agreement. "On behalf of the Port of Long Beach and the Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners, this is a job well done. We all look forward to many years of strong and fruitful efforts to keep trade moving.”