GOVERNOR LINGLE STATEMENT ON GAY & ROBINSON

For Immediate Release:  September 10, 2008

HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle issued the following statement today regarding the announcement by Gay & Robinson that it will transition its sugar operations to biofuel production.

“While sugar has been an integral part of the heritage and way of life for generations of Kaua‘i residents, we are encouraged that Gay & Robinson will continue to be an important part of the island’s economic future.  The company’s transition from sugar to renewable energy signals a new chapter for Kaua‘i and will help position the island for a more secure, clean energy future that is less dependent on imported oil.  The State will work closely with Gay & Robinson and Pacific West Energy, LLC to assist during the transition, including expediting the permits and approvals necessary to transform this kama‘āina company.”

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For more information, contact:
Ted Liu 
Director, DBEDT  
Phone: (808) 586-2355

Lenny Klompus
Senior Advisor – Communications
Phone: (808) 586-7708 

Russell Pang
Chief of Media Relations
Phone: (808) 586-0043