LIRR Strike Averted

After 4 years, the MTA and the unions representing 5,400 Long Island Rail Road workers have reached a compromise which will stop the Long Island Rail Road strike.  The deal was reached just after 1 p.m. on Thursday, July 17.  The tentative deal will avert a strike that would have begun Sunday at 12:01 a.m.

Suffolk County Executive Bellone stated, “today’s resolution of the LIRR labor dispute is great news not just for employees and commuters, but for everyone here in Suffolk.  The LIRR plays a critical role in our economy and avoiding a strike is critical to keep that activity going. I am very pleased that Governor Cuomo, the MTA and the LIRR unions were able to reach this agreement. I am especially thankful to Governor Cuomo for his personal involvement in this situation when we needed him most.”

Governor Cuomo stated “”This is a compromise by both parties after four long years.”

LIRR workers will get 17 percent raises over 6 1/2 years and for the first time all employees will contribute to their health insurance costs. New employees will have different wage progressions and pension plan contributions.

Metropolitan Transportation Authority chairman Thomas Prendergast and lead LIRR union negotiator Anthony Simon agreed that the contract was fair and reasonable and benefited both the LIRR workers and riders.

Union members will vote to ratify the contract by Aug. 15, and the MTA board votes on it in September.

According to all sides, fares will not increase for LIRR riders.