UTICA (TNS) U.S. Rep. Anthony Brindisi, D-Utica, says he stands with the workers at Remington Arms following the announcement this week that the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the U.S. Bankruptcy court for the Northern District of Alabama.

Remington Arms bankruptcy is a punch in the stomach for the hardworking men and women in our region, Brindisi said in a statement. This bankruptcy cannot be used as an excuse by the companys owners to gut union pensions, take away benefits that have been collectively bargained, or deny the safety rights of workers whove made the company profitable over the years.

He added, I have spoken with UMWA Local 717 representatives and have offered the full assistance of my office during this process. I stand with the workers in Ilion and their families whove dedicated their lives and made a living working at this plant.

As it stands, the Remington Outdoor Company is in talks with a number of parties and plans to solicit bids prior to a September auction, according to a statement distributed to Remington Arms employees in Ilion.

Republican Claudia Tenney, who is running against Brindisi for New Yorks 22nd Congressional District seat in the November election, also released a statement.

Remington Arms decision to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy is a sad day for the Mohawk Valley, its loyal and hard-working employees, and America, she said. As the oldest continuously operating firearms maker in the country, the Ilion plant is part of American history and woven into the fabric of this community.

I have worked hard to defend Remington and its workers and will not stop now, Tenney said. It has been an honor to work with and earn the support and trust of its employees and its union, UMWA 717, over many years. I will fight to see Remington survive this painful chapter and come away stronger.

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NY congressman calls Remington bankruptcy filing 'punch in the stomach' - Olean Times Herald