Statement of CSEA president Donohue on opening of Dept. of Motor Vehicle Call Center at Greene Corr. Fac.

ALBANY, NY (01/11/2012)(readMedia)-- "While not a new program, using prisoners to do the work of Department of Motor Vehicle employees is a bad idea generally and even worse considering the current economy. At a time when thousands of New York families are struggling to find jobs and pay their bills, New York State has decided to help prisoners develop "marketable skills" rather than make appropriate and necessary jobs available to law abiding citizens who would then pay their taxes, spend their paychecks and contribute in the local community. CSEA can only remain skeptical about claims of taxpayer savings from this scheme when security and close supervision costs are considered."

"It's another swipe at public employees by equating the work of hard working, responsible and dedicated employees with incarcerated criminals in the public's mind."

-30-