Hundreds Tell Governor: "No Layoffs"

SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY (04/17/2009)(readMedia)-- "No Layoffs, no layoffs, no layoffs!" is what hundreds of union members from the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) joined by members representing the Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA) shouted in front of the Gideon Putnam Hotel in Saratoga State Park Friday.

Union leaders and members gathered for an informational picket and rally while Gov. David Paterson addressed the New York State Democratic Rural Conference.

"We are here today and stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters, all state employees, to send a message - layoffs will only further damage the economy of New York state," said PEF Secretary-Treasurer Arlea Igoe. "The union recognizes the fiscal crisis in this state, and we have offered solutions. We have pointed out repeatedly how the state could save millions of dollars by letting state workers do their jobs, and not hiring high-priced consultants to do the same work. Why isn't the governor listening to us?"

PEF Region 8 Coordinator Tom Comanzo said the state workforce is a solid structure that supports all the services people in New York expect and deserve.

"Saying you are going to cut more than 8,000 state jobs within two months is an irresponsible act. It will cripple New York. State agencies already are suffering with low staffing levels. There aren't enough state workers now to care for those with mental illness or other disabilities," Comanzo said. "If the union can review and examine multiple ways for the state to save money while keeping workers employed and maintaining services, why can't the state?"

PEF is the state's largest white-collar labor union, representing approximately 58,000 professional, scientific and technical employees of New York state government agencies.