Port Authority reacts to high number of call-offs

A significant number of Port Authority employees called off from work Saturday, in what Port Authority officials called an apparent protest of the authority’s vaccine mandate.

Port Authority spokesman Adam Brandolph declined to give an exact number of how many employees didn’t show up for work Saturday, adding a number would likely be available Monday.

“It was more than what we would expect,” Brandolph said of the number of usual call-offs expected during St. Patrick’s Day and Saturday’s snowstorm.

In a statement, Port Authority CEO Katharine Kelleman thanked the employees that did report for work Saturday, adding the combined snowstorm and St. Patrick’s Day Parade had placed strains on the system and created difficult working conditions.

“Your commitment ensured the busways were clear, vehicles were running and our rail lines were accessible for a safe commute,” Kelleman said.

Kelleman had a message for employees that were no-shows Saturday.

“I understand that our union employees want to stand in solidarity with their coworkers, but I’m encouraging those employees who called off today to get back to work. The people of Allegheny County rely on our services too much for ATU Local 85 to play these games,” Kelleman said.

Kelleman encouraged ATU Local 85 leadership to encourage its remaining unvaccinated members to get vaccinated.

ATU Local 85 President Ross V. Nicotero was not immediately available for comment Saturday.

Brandolph said about 80% of the Port Authority’s 2,700 employees are vaccinated.

The Trib recently reported an Allegheny County judge ruled Thursday against the injunction requested by the union representing many Port Authority employees, clearing the way for the authority’s vaccine mandate to be enforced.

The mandate took effect March 8.

About 500 unvaccinated employees have until March 15 to get their first dose of the covid-19 vaccine.

Employees missing the deadline will be held off from work, with pay, until their disciplinary hearing, Brandolph said.

Port Authority officials said if 500 employees are placed on leave about 20% of scheduled services could be eliminated for several weeks.

Port Authority officials have warned of “significant” service disruptions and missed trips and are encouraging riders to find alternative methods of transportation or adjust their travel plans.

Brandolph said it’s impossible to guess where service outages may occur day to day.