In an effort to better communicate information as quickly as possible to the Membership here is the ” HOT TOPICS” for this week.
A) I worked with Labor Relations on Managers Level of Appeals and also outstanding claims that we are still in discussions to resolve informally.
B) I attended our monthly meeting concerning the Conductor Training Program or CTP. We discussed the mentor side of the program and how to improve the communication between crews and students. We also discussed what ongoing training the students must have during the CTP. The issue about students not having radios while on OJT was discussed and should be resolved going forward.
C) I was involved in 2 separate issues this week alone where our Members reported either an unsafe condition, unsafe equipment or unsafe practices while they were working. The quick action of the members notifying me, in these cases with pictures, undoubtedly saved members and the public from serious injuries or worse. I urge you to please report something that is unsafe, don’t think it was already turned in or it is someone else’s job. The saying that the “life saved could be your own” is always accurate in our profession.
D) I would like all Members who were forced to erroneously take 24 or 48 hours rest under NJT HOS FLAG time period to email me full details of those days. Please include your name, emp#, job symbol you were forced off for the day and full lost earnings. I have already discussed this claim with Labor Relations and we are progressing it forward. Please send your email to sburkert@utulocal60.com
E) Nominations for Local Officers will be held at our next Local 60 meeting on Sunday Oct. 1st, next weekend. The offices up for nomination are President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, (3) Trustees and Alternate Legislative Representative. You can be nominated at the meeting or have 5 Members sign a sheet nominating you for the spot desired, the sheet must be handed in at the meeting.
F) Next week I will be very busy again with Hearings in Trenton involving NJT. I will also be having meetings with other elected officials and those who are seeking elected positions to discuss Members issues. Train staffing, Member safety and Designated Funding for NJT will be discussed.
Please email me feedback or suggestions, I am here for you the Members. sburkert@utulocal60.com
Fraternally,
Stephen J. Burkert
General Chairman
