The Labour Court recommended graduated loading pay scales for 11 drovers employed by Purcell Exports Ltd. The recommendation was signed on 7 October 1988. The Amalgamated Transport and General Workers Union sought improved pay and conditions, arguing that the drovers worked regularly as a group and should have terms similar to regular dockers. Purcell Exports said falling cattle-boat activity meant the port could not support the requested conditions. The recommended scale ranged from the daily rate for up to 1,299 cattle to double the daily rate for 1,900 or more. The Court also recommended that the parties negotiate the union’s other claims, including holiday entitlements, a pay increase, pension and death-in-service cover, as soon as possible.