BAC Condemns Government Shutdown, Calls for Immediate Action to Protect Federal Workers

[Washington, DC] – As the federal government shutdown continues into its 10th day, with no resolution in sight, International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers President Timothy J. Driscoll released the following statement:

“The US government shut down is an unacceptable failure of leadership by President Trump and his allies in Congress. This reckless act puts countless jobs, essential services, and the entire economy at risk.

“The most immediate victims of this manufactured crisis are the federal workers and their families, over 80% of whom live outside of Washington, DC, and over 30% of whom are veterans. 

“Adding insult to injury, federal personnel deemed essential, including air traffic controllers and TSA agents, are required to work without pay. While they are legally due back pay, their checks could be delayed for weeks to months. This kind of behavior toward workers is outrageous under any circumstances, and shameful coming from the wealthiest country in the world.

“Furthermore, the Trump Administration is now weaponizing the shutdown by starting to illegally fire federal workers. These actions are purely political, sacrificing the needs of working Americans.
 
“Our union stands with every federal worker and every family impacted by this shameful display of partisanship. Our message to the administration and their allies is straightforward: Get to work. Fund the government. Fix the health care crisis. Put working people first.”