News from Civil Service Employees Association

For more information contact: Ed Molitor, Communications Associate, Work: 518-257-1272 / Emy Pomprio, Labor Relation Specialist, Cell: 518-561-8211

Media Advisory

CSEA to Picket Peru SD for Denying Health Insurance to Seriously Ill Retiree

PERU, NY (10/06/2007; 1300)(readMedia)-- CSEA members at the Peru School District will hold an informational picket Oct. 9 at 5:15 p.m. at Peru CSD School to support a seriously ill co-worker whom the district has denied health insurance in retirement.

The employee, Ken LaMoy, a bus driver for the district since 1991, was injured in a fall on the job in March. While treating him for his injuries, doctors also diagnosed Mr. LaMoy with bone cancer. He retired from the district effective Sept. 30 and applied for retiree health insurance under the union's collective bargaining agreement with the district.

The district denied Mr. LaMoy's application despite what CSEA called clear and plain contract language entitling him to coverage. The union filed a grievance charging the district violated Mr Lamoy's contractual right to health benefits in retirement.

CSEA Labor Relations Specialist Emy Pombrio said the issue is important to all area school employees because other CSEA-represented school districts have similar contract language with respect to retiree health benefits.

"What good is a contract if they're not going to follow it?" said Peru Central School CSEA Unit President Jeanette Cumber. "We work hard to get a fair agreement; and when it is time to follow it, we have to fight every inch to get it honored for our members."

"This is about much more than just a contract dispute," said CSEA Capital Region President Kathy Garrison, who plans to attend the event. "This is about common decency and compassion. We think it's very sad that district officials have chosen to turn their backs on Mr. LaMoy in his time of need."

The union's picket will take place prior to Tuesday's Board of Education meeting, at which Mr. LaMoy's grievance will be heard. The school is located at 17 School Street, Peru.