US ports strike causes first shutdown in almost 50 years
www.bbc.com
The strike is set to significantly disrupt trade, creating uncertainty ahead of the US election.
  • the post of tom joad@sh.itjust.works
    8·
    29 days ago

    The IBEW that represents inside wiremen like myself are covered by a different contract than those electricians who work with the SMART union and BLET on the railroad. I don’t think they are subject to the same availability requirements (which were the main crux) as the transport guys but i know as much as you do on that topic.

    I can tell you i quit the railroad myself after 2 years of suffering, primarily over those very availability requirements. The amount of sick time the RR workers ended up getting (in my opinion) is a bandaid on a gushing wound.

    I wouldn’t work under those requirements for thrice the pay they get.

    • anon6789@lemmy.world
      4·
      29 days ago

      Thank you, this is some of what makes me uncertain as someone outside, I have no idea as to which parties are actually receiving new benefits since most sources lump everyone together. It makes it very difficult to tell what has or hasn’t been accomplished and both sides can spin it to what they wish and most will never know the truth.

      I do remember reading about the work conditions and just the logistical issues of having the job, and it did sound rather nightmarish and I had no clue why anyone would do it if they had any other choice. Props to those who do it, I’m certain it’s a crucial job, but it is not something I’m cut out for!

      • the post of tom joad@sh.itjust.works
        3·
        29 days ago

        My Gramps was a conductor and his death benny’s paid for the last decade of grammas care so i was attracted by that. The pay was great and the healthcare and retirement are better then most.

        The job was really, really tough though, in ways it’s tough to summarize. Not just cuz of the availability, but the way the the job worked. Worst job ever by a loooong way, and I’ve been a waiter, a telemarketer and a retail worker