Brooklyn, Queens bus strike ends

Striking bus drivers and mechanics in Brooklyn and Queens were expected back on the job today after a 10-day walkout linked to demands for better health benefits and retroactive raises. The walkout, which stranded tens of thousands of riders, pitted New York City against labor unions representing drivers and mechanics. According to the New York Times, the unions were also seeking seniority security for their members, as private bus lines come under control of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). Under the agreement reached Wednesday night, the city will give the 800 striking workers $1,000 each when the deal is ratified. They'll also receive a 3% raise covering last year. The MTA is scheduled to take over the private bus lines in April.