PA Governor Rendell Expresses Disappointment at SEPTA Transit Walkout

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Urges Members to Communicate with Union Leaders

Nov. 3, 2009 -- Harrisburg – Pennsylvania Governor Edward G. Rendell today said he was “extremely disappointed” that contract negotiations for SEPTA broke down early this morning, resulting in a strike that crippled mass transit in the Philadelphia region.

The Governor became directly involved in SEPTA talks on Oct. 30 and participated in 14 hours of negotiations on Nov. 2. He said union leaders walked away from what he felt was a “sensational” contract offer, especially in light of challenging economic conditions.

“It was an excellent contract, but union leadership walked out on a big victory for their members,” Governor Rendell said. “(Union leaders) are not in touch with the economic conditions affecting all of us.”

The Governor urged union members to communicate with union leaders about whether they wish to continue to the work stoppage, saying he felt that “most union members would have jumped at” the terms of the contract proposal that was being discussed prior to the walkout.

He also said he was upset at the timing of the walkout, with the union calling a strike in the middle of the night without giving morning commuters enough warning to make other arrangements.

Source: Pennsylvania Governor