Senator Martins: Governor Must Get in the Game to Help Prevent Lirr Strike

     With news that Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Chairman Tom Prendergast has stopped negotiating with Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) workers, Senator Jack M. Martins (R-Mineola) once again called on Governor Andrew Cuomo to intervene to help avert a LIRR strike.

     “We need the Governor to bring both sides back together and mediate through this logjam. Long Islanders need him involved and engaged right through deadline. No one should be walking away from the negotiating table,” said Senator Martins.

     Senator Martins added, “The impact of shuttering North America’s largest commuter railroad should not be downplayed; the MTA itself has said no contingency plan can fully replace LIRR service. State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli estimates a strike could cause up to $50 million in economic losses a day. Long Island’s transportation infrastructure will be paralyzed. Long Islanders deserve to know that every effort is being made to keep the LIRR on track.”

     Senator Martins continued, “Both the MTA and LIRR workers have asked for outside help to close the gap between them. Congress has said it will not intervene. The Governor has shown talent at resolving these disputes in the past. He needs to order both sides back to the table and try to do it again here. Make the call, Governor.”