Senate Leadership
June 20, 2006
Williams, Stillman Say Layoffs at Pfizer Show Need to Focus on Retaining Research and Development Jobs
Plan to meet with Pfizer officials about possible expansion of R&D
State Senate President Pro Tempore Donald E. Williams, Jr. (D-Brooklyn) and Sen. Andrea Stillman (D-Waterford) said today's announcement by Pfizer corporation regarding its plans to eliminate approximately 300 jobs-the entire manufacturing operation-by the end of 2008 means there is much more work to do to on the issue of economic development. Pfizer said the decision was part of "an ongoing global initiative to align capacity with product demand by adjusting Pfizer's manufacturing operations around the world."
"This is bad news for Southeastern Connecticut and for the state," Sen. Williams said. "Pfizer's decision was apparently in the making since 2003, according to company officials, and they've made it clear that the decision to eliminate the 300 manufacturing jobs is not reversible. But Connecticut is still Pfizer's primary research and development home, and we must make sure Connecticut retains and grows those jobs in the future."
Sen. Stillman, a member of the Eastern Connecticut Workforce Investment Board said, "The southeastern Connecticut economy is vibrant and diverse, but this body blow to its manufacturing sector will be difficult to sustain. As a member of the Investment Board, I know we already have our hands full adjusting to the recent changes in the defense industry and related businesses," Sen. Stillman added. "I know we'll do everything within our means going forward to ensure as much Pfizer R&D on the site as possible."
Sen. Williams met with Pfizer officials earlier this year when he was working on legislation that became Senate Bill Number One-Jobs for the 21st Century. He said he and others will meet with Pfizer officials and others in the near future to discuss the research and development climate in Connecticut, and possible future legislation.
"It is critical that state leaders reach out to employers across the state and work to preserve and expand jobs in Connecticut," Sen. Williams said. "That's what provided the inspiration for last session's economic development legislation, and it's something I will continue to do."
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