KITTERY, Maine (AP) – Workers at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard are thanking New Hampshire Rep. Carol Shea-Porter for her efforts to eliminate a controversial pay-for-performance program.

Shea-Porter helped amend the National Defense Authorization Act to eliminate the National Security Personnel System, which was approved for Pentagon employees in 2003. Many federal employees have complained about the program’s lack of fairness, credibility, and transparency.

Paul O’Connor, president of the shipyard’s Metal Trades Council, called Shea-Porter a torch bearer for working men and women.

Shipyard workers plan to thank the congresswoman in person on Friday.