Sen. Kelly: Sikorsky plan will “keep good-paying middle-class jobs here.”

Sen. Kevin Kelly issued the following statement regarding the tentative deal reached between the state and Lockheed Martin Corp. to keep and possibly increase jobs at helicopter manufacturer Sikorsky Aircraft and commit to remain in the state for at least the next 10 years.

“The best helicopters in the world are made right here – nobody else does it better than Sikorsky,” said Sen. Kevin Kelly, R-21. “And that’s going to stay that way. This news is a tribute to the quality workforce we have in our region. It’s a testament to the highly-skilled in-state vendors and suppliers we have throughout Connecticut. And it sends a message to the business community that we value that talent and want to invest in it. The labor force which makes up the Sikorsky family keeps us free abroad and saves lives. They are second to none in what they do and we’re going to keep these good-paying middle-class jobs here.

“I would further add that we should not lose focus of keeping all of the Marine One helicopter business in our state too,” Kelly said. “Marine One should be built, repaired and maintained here, where the best labor talent is. I would strongly suggest that state lawmakers in Hartford view this deal as an opportunity to discuss why now, more than ever, Connecticut needs to focus on creating an environment which welcomes new jobs, economic growth and opportunity. As this region’s state senator, I plan to seize this opportunity by continuing to talk about policies which can stabilize our state’s finances and build confidence among state residents and businesses.”