Statement by New York State AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento on the End of the Con Ed Lockout

ALBANY, NY (07/26/2012)(readMedia)--

This was one of the toughest contract fights New York has seen in recent memory, and I could not be prouder of the way the Labor Movement responded. Up against Con Ed's billions, union members from across New York City and State joined together to support the 8,500 workers and their families that were forced to the street. Public sector, private sector, and building trades, our unions wholeheartedly embraced Local 1-2 workers as their own, walking picket lines, rallying in Union Square, and reaching out to our communities.

This fight was never about just the workers of Con Ed; it was about all New Yorkers whose wellbeing was jeopardized by the lockout. It was about all workers who've ever been pushed around. It was about standing up for what's right.

I commend Local 1-2 President Harry Farrell and his members for remaining strong and united to protect the rights and dignity of workers. I also thank Governor Cuomo for his leadership in bringing about a settlement, as well as all elected leaders who voiced their support for the locked out workers.

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