For Immediate Release:
February 21, 2013
Contact: The State Office
518.436.8827
The members of the New York Police and Fire Retirees Association (NYSPFRA) today joined a coalition of voices in opposition to a recommendation by Governor Andrew Cuomo threatening the long-standing rights of police and fire fighters when negotiations with the municipal leaders breakdown.
The 2013-14 Executive Budget seeks to limit the options of all parties when the negotiations process reaches impasse. This last resort approach to reaching resolution provides municipalities or uniformed employees with the opportunity to seek a resolution, without the threat of work stoppages that potentially threaten public safety.
NYSPFFA President Michael McManus said: “The Governor’s actions have galvanized the support of active duty fire-fighters and police officers, and we are pleased to know that those who have spent a career responding to their community call have not forgotten those continuing to serve today.”
William Wicoff, President of the New York Police and Fire Retirees Association said:
“The men and women fighting fires, responding to emergencies and saving lives across New York have earned their right of binding arbitration. They deserve a Governor who stands with the state’s first responders, not one who will try to undo thirty five years of workplace fairness.”