By Kevin Lee     Illinois Statehouse News

CHICAGO  –  Governor Pat Quinn wants to merge two youth agencies together much to the chagrin of a powerful union.

Quinn wants to combine the state Department of Juvenile Justice, which oversees delinquent minors, with the Department of Children and Family Services.

Officials in the Quinn Administration claim the proposed merger would help youths reintegrate into their communities.

But Eddie Caumiant, an official with public employee union AFSCME doesn't think the merger is necessary.

072810Caumiant1                     :16                    …staff to do that."

Chicago Democrat Greg Harris, says merger or no merger, he wants the choice that would help youngsters the most.

072810Harris1                           :14                   …shuffling people around."

The Quinn Administration has not set a timetable on when they would submit a merger proposal for lawmakers to consider.