The Strike of 1983

The UTU strike of 1983 against Metro-North has generated various types of commentary over the years and provides ACRE officers an opportunity to dispense misinformation regarding this issue. Over the years ACRE has contended Amtrak and Conrail employees violated the UTU picket lines on Metro-North.

What actually occurred was the UTU allowed the uninterrupted operation of Conrail and Amtrak. Interference with Conrail and Amtrak operations would have compelled President Regan to order an end to the strike for interfering with Interstate Commerce. The UTU requested the train dispatchers to go through the picket lines and keep Conrail and Amtrak trains operating. Employees from these railroads did not cross the picket lines in refusal to honor the strike; they had to cross the picket lines to keep the strike functional.

During a UTU informational meeting in Stamford on January 22, questions arose concerning ACRE officers spreading misinformation about this strike. Mike Doyle claimed he was unaware of this activity, but acknowledged the actual reason Conrail and Amtrak employees were allowed to keep working during the strike. Perhaps ACRE members should ask Paul Holland about his performance during the strike? Amtrak employed him at the time.

Instead of circulating misinformation about a strike effort on Metro-North Railroad 23 years ago, which was supported by employees of other railroads, ACRE should reflect upon their strikebreaking activities on behalf of the MTA during the recent TWU Transit strike.