Statement of New York State AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento on Keeping Fitzpatrick Nuclear Power Plant Open, Saving Jobs

Albany -“Our affiliates in the private sector, public sector and building trades were united in recognizing the important role existing nuclear facilities, like the James A. Fitzpatrick Nuclear Power Plant have in our communities and in our future. “Our members joined with our community allies to make their voices heard at hearings, on petitions, and through letters, and today we celebrate those efforts. “We applaud Governor Cuomo for his leadership in recognizing that nuclear energy must remain a part of the state's clean energy plan. The Governor's clean energy standard serves as an example for the rest of the country that we can achieve clean energy goals while at the same time maintaining jobs in communities where nuclear facilities exist. “We are pleased Exelon and Entergy continued discussions and found a path forward to keep Fitzpatrick operating. Today's announcement that Exelon will assume ownership and operation of Entergy's Fitzpatrick Nuclear Power Plant will save more than 600 jobs and ensures that Nuclear Power will continue to provide a source of clean energy in New York State. “Localities like Oswego depend on nuclear power generation for jobs, and the economic boost that comes with those jobs now and into the future.” Read more about the efforts here - http://nysaflcio.org/help-save-upstate-nuclear-jobs-today-tell-the-psc-we-support-the-staffs-proposal-and-support-zero-emissions/