OMAHA, Neb. — The 3rd biggest railway union declined its offer with freight railways Monday — restoring the possibility of a strike that might maim the economy — however priorto that might occur both sides will return to the bargaining table.
About 56% of the track upkeep employees represented by the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes Division union who voted opposed the five-year agreement even however it consistedof 24% raises and $5,000 in bonusoffers. Union President Tony Cardwell stated the railways didn’t do enough to address employee issues about the absence of paid time off — especially ill time — and requiring working conditions after the significant railways gottenridof almost one-third of their tasks over the past 6 years.
“Railroaders are dissuaded and upset with working conditions and payment and hold their company in low regard. Railroaders do not feel valued,” Cardwell stated in a declaration. “They feelbitter the truth that management holds no regard for their quality of life, highlighted by their persistent hesitation to offer a greater amount of paid time off, particularly for illness.”
The railways didn’t instantly remark on the declined agreement.
Four other railway unions haveactually authorized their contracts with the fre