Mon., Nov. 25 02 - Cattle Producers Cheer Resolution of Labor Dispute

Suggested Lead:

Cattle producers and other agriculture groups are happy today that the longshoresmen’s union and shipping companies’ on the West Coast have agreed to a new contract.  According to Chuck Lambert, chief economist for NCBA, the resolution brings to a close a labor dispute that threatened to halt the movement of millions of tons of meat, produce and retail goods.

Cut #1       :37            Outcue: "...so hard to develop."

Lambert says the importance of West Coast ports to agriculture and the beef export market cannot be overstated.

Cut #2       :23            Outcue: "...for the beef industry."

According to Lambert, the beef industry was quick to recognize the dangers posed by this dispute and in urging involvement from key policymakers to resolve it.

Cut #3       :20            Outcue: "...for a negotiated solution."

Lambert says the dispute is a reminder of the importance of monitoring and protecting U.S. trade.

Cut #4       :24            Outcue: "...being a reliable supplier."