"In the wake of September 11th and the Station Nightclub fire, Rhode Island has worked hard to improve the state's ability to prevent and respond to emergencies," Governor Carcieri said. "While we have upgraded our equipment and protocols, the most important thing we can do is drill, practice, and train. In that light, the statewide terrorism drill scheduled for Sunday is a critical part of our ability to protect Rhode Island citizens."
"It is unconscionable for the Providence firefighters union to even consider picketing this important anti-terrorism exercise," the Governor continued. "Regardless of their disagreement with the City of Providence, this union has no right to hold hostage the state's ability to protect Rhode Islanders from the threat of terrorism. While I hold the courageous work done by all firefighters in the highest regard, and while I respect their right to bargain collectively, their decision to picket this exercise is wrong. One local contract dispute cannot be allowed to trump the security of our homeland."
"As a result, I hope that the Providence firefighters union does the right thing by participating fully in this important statewide terrorism drill," Governor Carcieri concluded.
