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ETA News Release: [08/04/2006]
Contact Name: Michael
Volpe or David James
Phone Number: (202) 693-4676 or x3984
Release
Number: 06-1320-BOS
U.S. Labor Secretary Announces $716,388 Grant for
Dislocated Workers in Maine
Funds to Help Georgia-Pacific Workers
WASHINGTON — U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L.
Chao today announced a grant of $716,388, with an initial release of $285,744,
to assist approximately 190 workers affected by the closure of Georgia Pacific
Paper Mills in Maine.
"Maine workers affected by the Georgia Pacific closures who wish to
update their skills to launch new careers in high-growth industries, will
receive training and job placement assistance funded by this grant," said
Secretary Chao. "These workers will benefit from workshops and reemployment
services that will help them build bright futures in new jobs."
On March 16, 2006, Georgia Pacific announced it would close facilities
in Old Town, Maine, as of May 15. Workers from that location and feeder plants
in Houlton, Milo, Costigan and Portage, Maine, are covered under this grant.
Additionally, on May 25, all of the workers covered by this grant also were
certified as eligible to apply for services under the Trade Adjustment
Assistance (TAA) program. Through the TAA program, eligible workers will
receive training through admission to community colleges and other eligible
providers.
The grant, awarded to the Maine Department of Labor's Bureau of
Employment Services, will provide the affected workers a continuum of
re-employment services to include recruitment and assessment, workshops, basic
skills development, job search assistance and placement and retention
services.
Services provided for affected workers will maximize employment
opportunities and align with the state's economic development plan as part of
activities funded under the state's Workforce Innovation in Regional Economic
Development (WIRED) initiative. Re-employment services will focus on high
growth industries and occupations, such as marine trades, biotech and financial
services.
National Emergency Grants are part of the secretary's discretionary fund
and are awarded based on a state's ability to meet specific guidelines. For
more information on National Emergency Grants and other Department of Labor
employment and training programs, visit http://www.doleta.gov/NEG/.
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