According to a report, the president of the union which represents workers at Suffolk Downs has warned that the jobs of the members could be put at risk if the contract for live racing at the track this year is not worked out

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An article by the Boston Herald cites union president Lois Ciarlone as saying in a letter to the New England Horsemen’s and Benevolent Protective Association that if a shutdown occurs “All of the blue-collar workers represented by Local 123 will lose hours, shifts, days, or even their jobs.” He reportedly goes on to say “I find this action to be deplorable and patently unfair.”

The impasse between the management of Suffolk Downs and the horse owners is over the amount paid out to the winning horse owner, the number of live racing days and the percentage of revenue shared from simulcasting.

(With files from the Boston Herald)