TO: All I.B.E.W. Local Unions with with Construction and/or Utility Jurisdiction
Dear Brothers and Sisters:
For years, the utility industry has been at the center of a national debate over clean air, one that involves the conflicting views of labor, industry executives, environmentalists and public policy makers. Part of the reason for the impasse has been the hysterical reaction against nuclear power that surfaced in the 1970's and has never totally subsided. This has resulted in limiting growth of a safe, clean source of energy that provides good jobs to 58,000 workers including 15,000 of our I.B.E.W. members.
The time may be near when we can break the impasse, and the I.B.E.W. must do all in it's power to make that happen.
The International has joined the Clean and Safe Energy Coalition (C.A.S. Energy Coalition), a group that supports increased use of nuclear energy to supply electricity for American homes and businesses. Numerous other national and local labor organizations are also on board. We joined the coalition because nuclear energy boosts economic growth, supports good jobs in the construction and operations of new plants and communities and addresses many of the concerns over emissions that have plagued the industry.
With the high cost of fuel and the growing concern across the political spectrum over global warming, more parties in the debate are taking a second look at nuclear power with a broader range of support than has existed in many years.
C.A.S. Energy needs the broadest possible base of support in order to take advantage of this new atmosphere. In addition to the International, we need the support of as many local unions as possible. I urge you to join us in becoming a member of the C.A.S. Energy Coalition. Together, we can help create a new era in the utility industry.
To join, please go to www.CleanSafeEnergy.org and click on "Join Us".
With best wishes, I am
Sincerely,
Edwin D. Hill
International President