In an effort to better communicate information as quickly as possible to the Local 60 Membership, here is the ” HOT TOPICS” for this week.
A) ASSAULTS on TRAIN CREWS– I spoke with Executive Director Corbett last night about the increase in frequency of the assaults. We will be working with NJTPD to have police officers riding on our trains to assist with unruly passengers. There have been 7 arrests made in connection with the latest UNUSUAL OCCURRENCE REPORTS made by our Members. I have the full cooperation of Executive Director Corbett and Chief of Police Trucillo that all areas will be investigated to protect our train crews. NJ Transit will be prosecuting all of those arrested to the fullest extent of the law.
B) I called for an emergency meeting yesterday to address the Carrier’s change in the 013 policy. I explained in the meeting that the Collective Bargaining Agreement should be adhered to and past practice is upheld was my stance. Therefore the 013 policy will remain in effect as it has been working on our property.
C) I was in Hoboken Terminal on Wednesday to meet Members and explain current events for our Local. I also did a safety inspection of the entire terminal with the NJ Transit Office of System Safety. I was particularly concerned about the amount of construction and its effect on air quality for our Members. All areas where our Members use the facility were inspected and a report will be published with the findings.
D) The weekly assignment bulletins and run-sheets that were distributed have errors and there will be new ones coming out today. The Raritan Valley assignments that were changed are only temporary and will revert back in about 6 weeks when Track 5 work is complete.
E) I want to wish all Members and their families a Happy and Safe Labor Day Holiday.
Please email me feedback or suggestions, I am here for you the Members. sburkert@utulocal60.com
Fraternally,
Stephen J. Burkert
General Chairman
