Local News
“Today, these dedicated workers remain among the lowest paid in the country while serving one of the most expensive cities in the United States”
International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 318, representing Boston commuter rail workers at Keolis Commuter Services, which operates the commuter rail system on behalf of the MBTA, has organized a rally for fair wages and a new contract in front of South Gare. Jonathan Wiggs / The Boston Globe
Commuter rail workers rallied at South Station during the morning commute Wednesday to demand wage increases and a new contract with Keolis, which operates the rail system for the MBTA.
In a statement, Local 318 of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) said its members face “decades of wage stagnation and lost pay raises.”
“Today, these dedicated workers remain among the lowest paid in the country while serving one of the most expensive cities in the United States,” the release said. “Faced with soaring costs of living and outdated wages, IAM Local 318 members are demanding a fair contract that aligns their pay with national standards.
U.S. Reps. Ayanna Pressley, Seth Moulton and Stephen Lynch, along with state Sen. Brendan Crighton, joined the roughly 100 commuter rail workers at the rally, 7News Boston reports.
Jonathan Clark, president of IAM Local 318, told the station that the workers’ contracts expired two years ago, but they have no plans to strike.
“It affects all walks of life, from track maintenance workers to signal electricians to automobile inspectors,” he said of those affected.
In a statement to The Boston Globea Keolis spokesperson said the company was negotiating in good faith to “modify its existing agreements.”
“Our goal is to reach fair agreements with all unions while being mindful of our role as financial steward of Commuter Rail on behalf of the MBTA and the Commonwealth,” the statement said.
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