Tracy Mitrano, candidate for Congress in New York’s 23rd district, released the following statement about yesterday’s lay-offs at Ljungström facility in Wellsville.
“My thoughts are with the 35 workers who were laid off yesterday at Ljungström facility in Wellsville. The loss of manufacturing jobs in our communities has an economic ripple effect that impacts all of us.”
“I’ve heard that Ljungström is pursuing expansion into fabricating parts for wind turbines. I hope that their ISO 3834 welding certification comes through and that they are able to tap into this growing market for offshore wind turbines.”
“We must continue to find new opportunities to invest in Western New York manufacturing. Not enough has been done by either party to make sure that workers in our district benefit from the transition to new, green technologies.”
“In addition to legislation and tax incentives that promote both green technology and domestic manufacturing, we need workplace training programs to be sure that today's workforce can meet the needs of tomorrow's new facilities.”
“Congress must adopt more aggressive clean and sustainable energy goals for our country, with tax and financial incentives for companies that invest in wind turbines with parts made right here in America. With domestic parts requirements and labor protections, these types of 'blue collar/green collar' jobs are a win-win for our communities.”
“I am calling for an end to the trade wars, which have created instability in the global manufacturing market. When businesses are uncertain about the future, they take fewer risks, such as investing in facilities like Wellsville.”
“I am calling on Tom Reed to deliver more resources to the region for workforce training programs, and to advocate for legislation that will help regular workers in this district. Let’s have fewer photo ops on factory floors, and more time spent doing the hard work of cultivating new businesses and maintaining jobs in the district.”
