By Philip Newman
The New York Mets management, which fired 22 women bathroom attendants at Shea Stadium a few weeks ago, has restored 18 of the jobs after labor negotiations that resulted in their getting a pay raise.
The fired women had picketed outside the stadium since they were notified on March 29, just before the National League baseball season began, that they would no longer work in the 26 women’s restrooms at Shea.
“We are delighted that we were able to reach an agreement with the Mets organization that allows these hardworking women to once again provide a much-needed service,” said a statement by Mike Fishman, president of Local 32B/32J of the Service Employees International union.
David Howard, vice president of the Mets for legal affairs, confirmed that a settlement had been reached with the matrons.
“We got many, many e-mails protesting the attempt to eliminate these jobs and we believe the Mets did, too,” said John Hamill, a spokesman for the union.
“With so many more women taking part in sports these days, there are many more women attending Mets games, which means these women employees are more needed than ever.”
Hamill said the matrons not only keep the restrooms clean and orderly but also provide all sorts of help to women and unaccompanied children and are vital in case of emergency.
The union said the new agreement with the Mets also provides a 3 percent pay raise. The pay scale in the previous contract was $13.50 an hour.
