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ETA News Release: [12/15/2003]
Contact Name: Lorette Post
Phone Number: (202) 693-3984

Labor Secretary Announces $8 Million Grant to Aid Alaska Workers Affected by Declining Fishing Industry

WASHINGTON—U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao today announced a National Emergency Grant of up to $8 million, with an initial release of $2 million, to aid approximately 468 workers affected by declines in the commercial salmon fishing industry.

“The President and I are committed to getting help to the workers of the commercial fishing industry in Alaska as quickly as possible,” Chao said. “This $8 million grant will help these workers to access employment and transitional assistance, including skills assessment, job placement, classroom training, occupational skills training, and supportive services such as transportation and child care.”

The grant, awarded to the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development, will provide participants with services to include outreach, recruitment, counseling, employment plan development, job search assistance, training, and support services.

Workers covered under the grant include self-employed fisherman, eligible family members, and industry-related workers who have lost their businesses or jobs.

The project operator will be the Bristol Bay Economic Development Corporation.

National Emergency Grants are part of the secretary’s discretionary fund. A grant is awarded after a state submits a request and the grant guidelines have been met.

For additional information about the Department of Labor’s unemployment and re-employment programs, please visit www.doleta.gov.

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