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The latest salvo from the Union... LC Letter to the Editor - Albany Times Union Amtrak's service contract with Subway is shortsighted and dangerous First published: Friday, December 2, 2005 An article appeared in your Nov. 20 business section headed, "Amtrak starts with food." I would strongly disagree with the premise. Amtrak should start with a safe and secure trip. The decision to end food and beverage service provided by professional service workers and to contract with Subway franchisees is shortsighted and dangerous. The Empire Corridor trains no longer include service workers who, like flight attendants on the airlines, are responsible for the safety and security of passengers as well as food service. These rail workers received training in emergency protocols to handle bomb threats, evacuation procedures, fire suppression, risk avoidance of communicable diseases and blood borne pathogens, as well as FDA regulations in food handling. There have been more than 181 terrorist attacks against major rail networks, including those in London, Madrid, Paris, Moscow and Tokyo, since 1998. To eliminate on-board service and contract it out to sandwich vendors removes an important level of security on America's passenger trains. On-board service employees have acted heroically in emergency situations helping to evacuate trains and administer first aid. Three years ago, when Amtrak's autotrain derailed in Crescent City, Fla., on-board attendants rescued trapped passengers by opening windows and pulling them to safety. When the California Zephyr derailed in 2001, one on-board attendant rescued 80 passengers despite his own injuries Now, Amtrak has contracted with Subway in a pilot program where Subway employees will hawk sandwiches in the aisles. Amtrak has put itself on record that these workers are to be treated like passengers in case of emergency. Instead of being first responders, they will be first out the door. Trading safety for a sandwich is irresponsible. GARY MASLANKA Chair, Amtrak Service Workers Council Railroad Division Director Transport Workers Union of America New York City
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