Contact: Colleen Roche (212) 788-2958 or Deirdra L. Picou (212) 788-2971
"It's a pleasure to join you for this annual conference meeting," said Mayor Giuliani. "I see that the theme of this year's meeting is redesigning government in New York City: myth or reality. Crime is down. The streets are cleaner. The quality of life is up. Our workforce is more secure. From Times Square to Staten Island, New York City is bouncing back."
"Since 1993, New York City has gained over 100,000 private sector jobs," said the Mayor. "Those new private sector jobs are important to our public sector employees. Because a strong, growing economy provides the best security for our union members. I'm proud that my administration has a strong record of cooperation with unions."
"Respect for unions is an everyday part of my administration. I am proud that our relationship has been marked by open discussion and constructive negotiations. We've worked hard to build a positive partnership with our City's unions, resulting in agreements that have achieved real savings for the people of New York City, while at the same time empowering workers and energizing the City's workers," the Mayor continued.
"It was with the cooperation of the unions that we were able to fund the contracts in a way that was affordable to the City. And it was an agreement that brought job security for our workforce. We have worked hard with many of you to avoid layoffs.
"New York has always been a great union city, and it still is. But today there is a new spirit in the air, a new recognition that the challenge of creating a more efficient government is a challenge we share. We're showing that by working together we can meet that challenge.'
The Mayor concluded, "Yes, New York City really is redesigning government. And New York City employees are meeting the challenge -- more service for the dollar and more security for the future. Thank you for inviting me to join you today. I wish you a most successful and productive meeting."