|
BP MARKOWITZ STATEMENT ON END OF ACCESS-A-RIDE STRIKE
“For the thousands of seniors and people with disabilities in Brooklyn and across the City who desperately rely on Access-A-Ride, the end of the strike is welcome news this holiday season. Many thanks to those who negotiated the settlement to end this walkout after more than a week of limited service, and to get things rolling once again.”
Press release from Amalgamated Transit Union:
NYC Disabled Drivers and Mechanics ACCEPT Settlement Offer – Access A Ride Staff Ready to Return to Streets
By a majority of 53 % of ballots casted, members of the Para Transit Drivers and Mechanics of A.T.U. Local 1181-1061 AFL-CIO accepted the settlement offer made by four companies that carry the disabled and the chronically ill, including Maggie’s Para Transit, Atlantic Para Transit, MV Para Transit and TFM Para Transit.
According to Mr. Tommy Mullins, International Union Vice President and trustee of the union local, “The voice of the union has spoken and has accepted the proposed contract. We are thrilled to be able to return to our daily rounds serving the disabled and elderly who were inconvenienced for these ten days during cold and inclement weather.”
“Our members fought vigorously to secure a more equitable basis from which they can support their family with fair wages and health benefits throughout the year, not just during a cold week in December,” continued Mullins. “Our members are ready to return to work immediately as soon as van operations are scheduled by the companies and the MTA.”
The para transit workers hourly wages prior to the strike ranged from $11.00 to $17.36, which relates to annual wages of $22,880 to $36,109. Current family health care costs members $2400 per year or more than 10% of a starting worker’s gross wages.
|