IBEW 1049 Calls on National Grid to Offer Better Wages, Health and Pension Plans
By Hank Russell
Local elected officials from both sides of the aisle came out to Eisenhower Park in East Meadow on March 22 to show support for the members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) 1049, who, according to news reports, are calling on National Grid to offer higher wages and a better health plan and pension plan.
It was also reported that both National Grid and the union agreed to a temporary contract that ends on March 28.
Those in attendance came up to speak at a podium surrounded by banners that read “IBEW LOCAL 1049 SOLIDARITY” and “UNITED WE BARGAIN, DIVIDED WE BEG.” Some politicians who were there also took to social media to express their support.
“Standing strong with the hardworking members of @IBEW Local 1049 as they rally for a fair contract,” Assemblywoman Michaelle C. Solages (D-Valley Stream) posted on X. “They power Long Island—rain or shine, day or night—and they deserve fair wages, quality healthcare, and a secure retirement. #Solidarity.”
U.S. Congressman Tom Suozi (D-Glen Cove), whose father was also with the IBEW and helped light the Empire State Building, posted, “Today, I proudly stood with Local #1049 IBEW members in their contract dispute with National Grid. Everyone in America should believe that hard work should be rewarded with a salary that ensures enough money to buy a house, educate their children, health insurance, and a retirement free of fear.”
“I was proud to stand with the hardworking men and women of IBEW Local 1049,” state Senator Steve Rhoads (R-Mineola), ranking member of the Senate Labor Committee, wrote on his social media post, “… fighting for a fair contract with National Grid! These workers keep Long Island powered 24/7, and they deserve fair wages, strong benefits, and secure pensions.”
Pat Guidice, the union’s business manager, told Newsday that, if they fail to get a new contract, “I’m not confident that [a strike] won’t happen.”