TOLL Group has reported reaching an “in-principle” agreement with the Maritime Union regarding a new deal for workers employed at Webb Dock.

A dispute over the terms of a new agreement led to a 24-hour stoppage in late February.

But a company spokesperson said the parties were now closer together.

“Toll on Friday reached an in principle agreement with the MUA on a new enterprise bargaining agreement for employees at Webb Dock in Melbourne,” the spokesperson said.

“The agreement will end the recent industrial action and clears the way for Toll to return to normal shipping services, providing certainty to our customers, employees and Tasmanians for the future.”

Comment has been sought from the Maritime Union. Last month, MUA deputy national secretary Will Tracey said they had been disappointed industrial action had become necessary, “but after six months of negotiations the workforce is frustrated that they have been unable to finalise an agreement”.