GOVERNOR O'MALLEY STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF FORMER INTERNATIONAL LONGSHOREMEN'S ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT RICHARD HUGHES

ANNAPOLIS, MD -- Governor Martin O'Malley issued a statement on the passing of Richard P. Hughes, Jr., former President of the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and longshoreman at the Port of Baltimore.

“For over 50 years, Richie Hughes served as the voice of the men and women at the International Longshoremen’s Association who work tirelessly to connect our State to cities and ports half a world away.

“Richie was fearless, always willing to laugh in the face of overwhelming odds, but his legendary toughness was always moderated by a classic Irish-American wit. He was both fierce negotiator - and caring friend. Richie worked every day of his life with the best interests of the longshoreworkers, his family, and friends close to his heart.

“Today our prayers are with Richie’s family and all of those who called him a friend.”