ATU paratransit workers to vote on contract
NY1, New York, NY -12/18/2007
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December 18, 2007
The 1,500 paratransit drivers and mechanics who have been on strike since last Monday will vote on a contract agreement reached yesterday, meaning they could be back to work as soon as Thursday.
The four-year deal was a contentious process. A federal mediator was brought in to help the two sides find common ground.
“I think both parties realized what’s at stake,” said federal mediator Ralph Quattrocchi. “You have a significant number of workers on strike and there’s a real desire to cut any losses and try to get them back to work.”
While no one was talking about the exact terms of the deal, both sides describe it as fair.
“We’re looking forward to getting it ratified and we’re looking forward to getting our vehicles back on the road so we can transport our people,” said the chief negotiator for paratransit operators Jeff Pollack.
Workers could be back at work as early as Thursday if union members approve the offer. The union's main negotiators seemed confident that they will.
“I’m optimistic,” said Local 1181 chief spokesperson Tommy Mullens.
But after more than a week on strike, and at least two more days to go, the mediator acknowledged that the 8,000 elderly and disabled riders who rely on the four companies involved won't be all smiles on their first day back.
“I'm sure everyone is gonna have some animosity toward all involved, but I think over the years, if this should be approved by the members, I think that they’ll develop the relationship that they’ve had in the past,” said Mullens.
For their part, riders seem eager to put a week of transit horror stories behind them.
“We are thrilled to hear that so we are just very hopeful that come Wednesday afternoon at 3 o’clock, once those ballots are counted, the strike will finally be over,” said Michael Harris of the Disabled Riders Coalition.
Wednesday’s vote is scheduled to take place between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the American Legion Hall in Broad Channel. |
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