Electric Boat Cuts Will Not be Layoffs

The Norwich Bulletin reported that Electric Boat’s reduction in jobs this year can be achieved through attrition and furloughs, rather than laying off employees. More than 1,400 jobs were eliminated at EB this year, far fewer than the initial projections a year ago suggesting as many as 2,400 jobs might be lost this year. Of those jobs that were cut, more than 600 came from a series of layoffs throughout the year and the remaining 800 through attrition. Casey noted, however, an increase in design work has allowed the company to recall all 135 designers and engineers laid off last March. Democratic Congressman-elect Joe Courtney, who defeated Simmons in November, said Tuesday EB management and its work force deserve credit for their efforts to mitigate the loss of jobs. He pledged his support to work tirelessly during the next two years on behalf of the company and its workers. Courtney met with union leaders and members at the shipyard last week and plans to meet with management in the coming weeks before the new Congress convenes Jan. 4. Navy plans call for an increase in the shipbuilding budget from $11 billion to more than $20 billion through the next five years. But none of that increase is earmarked for new submarine construction beyond the one-per-year schedule until at least 2012 at the earliest. One furlough at the company recently was accomplished entirely with volunteers. Company and union officials said they hope future furloughs can be handled the same way. source: Norwich Bulletin