Unionized workers with Consolidated Edison in New York City will be picketing as their leadership plots their next move following failed contract talks and a lockout.

Con Ed strikers in New York
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A union spokesman says Harry Farrell, the president of Local 1-2 of the Utility Workers of America, will call for federal mediators to intervene to get talks started again.

Talks were suspended early Sunday morning with both sides saying they remained “far apart” on many issues.

Con Ed wanted to extend the current contract, with assurance the union would not call a strike without notice.

The breakdown comes as New York braces for more hot weather that will increase demand for air conditioning.

The utility is closing walk-in centers, suspending meter readings and limiting work on major construction projects.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)

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