Union to Hold Vote on Deal that Addresses Workers’ Concerns in Next Few Weeks
Taunton, MA - After a unified and strong 2-day strike, GARTA workers reached a strong tentative agreement with the Agency that meets the Union’s demands for fair pay, job security, and strong benefits. The members will vote on the deal in the next few weeks.
After months of fruitless negotiations between GATRA workers’ Union, ATU Local 1548-Plymouth, MA, and the company, the workers went on strike on Monday, September 29, because of the low wages, unfair treatment, and disrespect by the company. GATRA workers have the lowest pay and the weakest benefits at any regional transit authority in the state. The Union was able to secure a tentative agreement that addressed the Union’s key priorities and concerns.
“Our members stood strong and united throughout this process.,” said Local 1548 President/Business Agent Chuck Ryan. “This strike shows that our members are willing to lay it all on the line for justice. I want to thank our International President John Costa, our riders, elected officials, and all our allies for coming out and standing with us. This is a contract that they earned and deserve.”
To launch the strike ATU International President John Costa traveled to Taunton to join the strikers on the picket lines to put pressure on GATRA to settle this contract. He was joined by ATU members from Local 589-Boston, MA, Local 174-Fall River, MA, Local 618-Providence, RI, Local 1037-New Bedford, MA, and Local 1547-Brockton, MA.
“I am proud of our GATRA members who were willing to go to the mat to fight for their contract and a better transit system for their riders. On the picket lines, I saw firsthand their strength, unity, and solidarity,” said Costa. “Thanks to our ATU Locals members from across the region, the elected officials, and allies for coming to support our members and the riders who rely on GATRA. Our members are can now get back to the job of keeping of Taunton, Attleboro and surrounding communities moving safely and reliably. It was an honor to ‘Hold the Line’ with you!’”