Whistleblower alleges drinking on job at water department - Atlanta News, Weather, Traffic, and Sports | FOX 5

Whistleblower alleges drinking on job at Atlanta water department

Posted: Updated: July 10, 2012 06:46 PM
A whistleblower tells FOX 5 that drinking on the job is common at one critical Atlanta water department facility. A whistleblower tells FOX 5 that drinking on the job is common at one critical Atlanta water department facility.
ATLANTA -

A whistleblower tells FOX 5 that drinking on the job is common at one critical Atlanta water department facility.

The worker came forward after FOX 5 reported on Monday that employee Gary Blackwell was allegedly spotted purchasing a case of beer and then opening a can as he got back into his city vehicle.

"I know that at night time, they go to drink, and when the night falls, it's like a saloon there," said the worker, who asked to remain anonymous.

The worker said numerous employees of the water department drink alcohol and use marijuana while on the job. He said that managers are aware of the problem.

Gina Pagnotta-Murphy, the president of the PACE Union, said that workers are stressed out.

"Our union never condones wrong…but what's going on with the pension, economy, family issues, no raises – these things have to have an outlet," said Pagnotta-Murphy.

While the city provides an employee assistance program, Pagnotta-Murphy said that some workers don't trust it. They believe that the information they provide could be used against them.

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