John A. Flynn

John A. Flynn, Patrolman's Benevolent Association

The event began with a briefing from association member John Flynn about railway safety , and an introduction to various trackside hand signals and use of coloured flags.We were each given high visibility jackets to wear.My overall impression was that safety is the Association's prime concern , and indeed the whole operation was run very professionally.We were then taught the basics about the Clayton Class 17 locomotive which we were about to drive.Before driving , we were offered lunch aboard the train , while some other visitors were enjoying their driving experience.

When it was the turn of Dave and myself to drive the train , Dave went first - I secretly wanted to see how difficult it would be.

"We know of at least one and we're looking for more," said John Flynn, Patrolman's Benevolent Association trustee.

But the incident was not followed up nor investigated by the department, an official told Newsday yesterday.

The department announced Tuesday that eight of the 28 officers taking the current class, which began last week, had been hospitalized over the weekend with mysteriously high enzyme levels.

Elevated enzyme levels can be indicative of potential kidney damage.