The Hampton Roads Ports Maritime Council held its first meeting since the pandemic welcoming two Virginia elected officials to a question-and-answer lunch at the Seafarers Union hall in Norfolk, VA.
U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) and U.S. Representative Bobby Scott (D-VA) spoke with representatives from nine international unions – including seven from MTD affiliates. Topics of discussion ranged from building more U.S.-flag ships to stronger support for labor/company apprenticeship programs to stronger federal labor laws as well as the continuing support for infrastructure.
MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Mark Clements and Administrator Brittanie Potter joined SIU Norfolk Port Agent Mario Torrey in welcoming the duo to the newly remodeled hall. Both members of Congress told Torrey how impressed they were with the facility.
Prior to the meeting, Kaine and Scott spoke privately with the participants and guests. Besides the SIU, other MTD affiliates with representation included the Boilermakers, Communications Workers, Electrical Workers, Operating Engineers, Painters & Allied Trades, and Teachers. In addition, the Masters, Mates & Pilots and the Food & Commercial Workers participated.
Finally, both Kaine and Scott saluted retired MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan who opened the meeting and announced this was his final function for the department.