Access-A-Ride Drivers Strike Angers Disabled
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For years, Pamela Bates, 55, has used the city’s Access-A-Ride system, which provides transport to thousands of disabled and chronically ill riders.
But with some drivers going on strike yesterday over contract issues, Ms. Bates was stuck inside her Manhattan apartment, unable to get a ride to her daily activities.
“There’s no consideration on either side of what they’re doing to the people in between,” the retired real estate agent said.
Drivers from four companies that serve about 8,000 people daily walked off the job just after midnight.
The Para Transit Drivers and Mechanics of the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1181-1061, which has 1,500 members, rejected a contract offer a few months ago, primarily over issues of health care premiums and wages.