Author: Date: 04/17/2000 Page: A16 Section: LettersLETTERS TO THE EDITOR Joan Vennochi says "the Big Dig keeps Big Labor happy with its colossal overruns" ("Dump Kerasiotes," op ed, April 11). As a representative of hundreds of hard-working men and women involved with the Central Artery project, it becomes increasingly difficult to rationalize why they must suffer the consequences for the many variables that have resulted in the project's inflated costs.
Our members are held accountable, on a daily basis, for keeping projects on time and within the respective budgets on job sites throughout this state. They work in one of the most competitive and dangerous industries in this country, performing backbreaking work on a daily basis. They should not have to suffer the poison-pen treatment simply because they work within the confines of a problem governmental contract, unless there is tangible proof that they are the root cause!
While the column was certainly filled with many compelling thoughts, Vennochi's inability to sidestep the opportunity for a cheap shot at these thousands of decent people, who will share in paying the tax burdens that result from the overruns, was disappointing.
JAY HURLEY
Business Manager, Local 7
International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers South Boston