Mediators Reportedly Set Framework for Settlement (TRANSIT STRIKE MAY BE OVER!)

NY Times ^ | 12/22/05

[smith288]

Is there special talents involved for the members of this union?

Is there a limited supply of resources in this industry that cannot be easily replaced?

[tfecw]

"Is there a limited supply of resources in this industry that cannot be easily replaced?"

The Subway train folks could probably be replaced by machines, and the toll both workers could def be replaced by a machine.

[Stultis]

This calls for application of the Nixon Doctrine: Make a deal and then Screw 'Em. The MTA should quietly but steadly start authorizing private carriers to service their routes instead of continuing to protect the absolute union monopoly. ('Course that'll never happen.)

[OldFriend]

NY is full of people like that police officer who thinks ILLEGAL strikes are okay if it gets you what you want.

[montag813]

If the pension demands are significantly scaled back, it is a win for the union thugs and the chief thug Toussaint. The MTA needs to hold the line on this. Period.

The "pension demands" were thrown in at the last moment Tuesday night by that MTA idiot Kalikow. Why should the "line" he held on such a ridiculous proposal? 2% to 6%? a 300% increase? Why throw that in like that, unless you WANT to union to strike.

[Hillarys Gate Cult]

In a new development it has been determined that the MTA workers can't return to their jobs due to the transit strike :)

[AbeKrieger]

If they get ANYTHING that they asked for...than it's a huge win for them and a defeat for every other city that relies of mass transit...

I know, let's throw all the money they want at them, then raise fares commensurate so every dollar is recouped, directly from the hides of the "minorities, school children, and underprivileged", and watch 'em howl at the moon.

[soccer_maniac]

Hillary Clinton is missing :)

where was she during the entire strike?

[ican'tbelieveit]

That is my exact thought. And how fitting.

[tflabo]

NYC....another big liberal Dem city beholden to its Union thugs just like San Fran. These cities like to play with their snakes then complain when they get bitten. The snakes heads should be cut off instead but alas....no real men of courage and principle rule in these metrops. You elect corruption and you reap it friends. aka New Jersey too.

[traviskicks]

Stories and commentary on Unions and their desteructive effects on the United States:
http://www.neoperspectives.com/unions.htm

[bert]

....What's that got to do with visiting here?....

It's not safe for ordinary Americans. They beat a FReeper half to death and then declared him a criminal.

[visagoth]

Has anyone head any statement from Schumer or CLinton reagrding the strike??

Just wondering......

I won't hold my breath either.

[rawhide]

Here should be the settlement, "get back to work and we may not fire you".

I like that!

[conservative in nyc]

You forgot 4:

4. The MTA riders and taxpayers get hosed again as fares and tolls are raised.

[conservative in nyc]

Is there special talents involved for the members of this union?

It depends. It's easier to replace a bus driver than a subway driver. And the token booth clerks could easily be replaced by machines and cameras. But the subway signal system is extremely antiquated, and subway cars aren't buses - it would be difficult to replace those who maintain the system quickly.

[hattend]

"the people said"

Great verifiable source there, NY Times!

[sono]

didn't hear much from AG Spitzer either ... and he's running for Governor

[randog]

They should have taken a page from Ronald Regan and fired their asses.

I don't think they grow spines that sturdy in the Northeast.

[firebrand]

Make my day and stay home.