The union representing New York subway and bus workers suspended its strike deadline early Monday and reported progress in talks to avert a strike, said the Associated Press. The union's 34,000 workers had been ready to strike if they did not receive a new contract giving them raises and changing work rules. Progress in the negotiations has been made, primarily in noneconomic areas, Transport Workers Union secretary treasurer Ed Watt said. Talks would continue "as long as there is progress being made." The MTA had yet to address the wage issue--potentially a significant obstacle to a settlement, said John Moore, another union leader.