Submitted on Mon, 07/29/2013 - 8:49am

On Friday, Mobile Rail management fired two workers, Eric and Dwayne, and claimed that they will be firing all non-CDL carrying employees. We see this as a clear attack on the Union and a direct retaliation for the worker’s recent OSHA complaints. For years, Mobile Rail has deployed its locomotive service trucks with teams of one driver accompanied by one non-CDL helper. The attempt to break apart these teams not only is meant to destroy the organizing efforts but also creates an extremely hazardous situation for all workers. By changing to a single-driver operation, there will be no protections in the case that the one driver suffers heat stroke, is injured by faulty machinery, or is a victim of a train accident. We are immediately calling upon all IWW members and supporters to call Mobile Rail Management and politely but firmly demand they rehire both Eric and Dwayne. We ask that you further demand that all drivers are accompanied by a helper. You can reach Mobile Rail Solutions management at 847-551-9767 or call Tim, the general manager, directly at 224-622-9201.

To pour salt in the wound, Mobile Rail also just posted job openings to apparently replace the fired workers. You can find the job postings at http://chicago.craigslist.org/nwc/trd/3963820023.html. We are asking that every IWW member and supporter immediately apply for these positions regardless of your location or qualifications. We want them to see 3000 job applications from workers demanding a Union workplace.

Thank you for you help and Solidarity!