Con Ed, Union Reach Tentative Deal

Consolidated Edison and a union representing nearly 9,000 of its employees agreed to a tentative contract agreement early yesterday morning, avoiding a strike during the summer when the potential for blackouts is highest.

A spokesman for Local 1-2 of the Utility Workers Union of America, Joe Flaherty, said the two sides bargained until around 4:30 a.m. on issues such as wages, health care, and safety.

The major stumbling block during negotiations revolved around a proposal that would eliminate a traditional pension plan in favor of a 401(k)-style savings plan for new workers, which Con Ed scrapped at the last minute, according to Mr. Flaherty.

"We think this is a contract that is fair for our workers and keeps costs down for our customers," a spokesman for Con Ed, Michael Clendenin, said. He declined to discuss specifics.

Governor Paterson stepped in Saturday night, with the original midnight deadline fast approaching, and convinced both sides to put a 72-hour moratorium on negotiations.

Union members must ratify the contract next month.