BOSTON, MA – Senator John Kerry welcomed the compromise reached by Amtrak employees and the Amtrak Corporation today, where employees agreed in principle to a contract and averted a possible strike. Amtrak employees have been working without a contract since 2000.  Without a contract in place, they would have been able to strike at the end of this month, shutting down the commuter rail used by thousands of Bay State residents every day.  Kerry sent a letter yesterday to Amtrak President and CEO Alexander Kummant urging both sides to work together to get a deal done to avoid a work stoppage.

"After eight years of getting up every day and going to work without a contract, Amtrak's employees have earned the right to do their jobs knowing that they'll be treated fairly and equitably,” said Kerry.  “This contract is a win for Amtrak, for its employees and for those who depend on trains to get where they need to go."

Below is the text of Kerry’s letter, urging a prompt resolution:

January 17, 2008

Alexander Kummant
President and CEO
Amtrak
60 Massachusetts Ave NE
Washington, DC 20002-4285

Dear Mr. Kummant:

I am pleased that negotiations have resumed in the ongoing labor dispute between Amtrak and its employees, and to hear of the progress that has been made.  After eight years of negotiations, I look forward to the workers of Amtrak laboring under a solid contract that reflects fair compensation with respect to the rest of the industry and rewards them for their important work. I am a strong proponent of Amtrak and passenger rail and believe that to retain and promote the best labor force possible, workers must be adequately compensated.

As you continue to negotiate, I sincerely hope that you will follow the recommendations presented by the Presidential Emergency Board (PEB).  The PEB was comprised of neutral experts with a great deal of experience in this field.  In making its recommendations, the PEB asked for concessions from all parties and their recommendations present a path by which a resolution may be reached.

As you well know, not having an agreement and the potential risk of an associated labor stoppage would be devastating nationally - - not to mention the impact it would have on the public transportation system in and around Boston.  I urge you to reach a resolution in a manner that will prevent a work stoppage of this nature and allow passenger trains across the country to continue to operate effectively. 

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

John F. Kerry

###