Many LIRR union workers would have to work

Even if no trains are running, about half of all LIRR union workers are expected to show up to work during a strike, including conductors.

While five unions representing about half of the railroad’s organized workforce have vowed to walk off the job if a new contract isn’t settled by Saturday, the other half settled with MTA management long ago and would not be part of a work stoppage.

Anthony Simon, head of the LIRR conductors’ union, has said while his members won’t cross physical picket lines if they are set up at their work locations, they will honor their contracts.

Even if trains aren’t running, MTA managers have said they’ll find work for employees reporting for duty, including helping organize contingency plans and communicating with customers.
 

By Alfonso A. Castillo

alfonso.castillo@newsday.com@alfonsoreports

Alfonso Castillo has been reporting for Newsday since 1999 and covering the transportation beat since 2008. He grew up in the Bronx and Queens and now lives in Valley Stream with his wife and two sons.