WASHINGTON, DC – Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton today called on Syracuse China, a subsidiary of Libbey Glass Inc., to do all it can to accommodate the employees at the Salina manufacturing facility who will be displaced when operations close in March of next year. In a letter sent to Libbey Glass Chairman and CEO, John F. Meier, Senator Clinton expressed her disappointment in hearing that the plant would be leaving the region after more than 130 years of service, and urged him to uphold the company’s reputation as a pillar of the community by working to ensure that the company’s employees receive the benefits and assistance they have earned. At least 275 employees will be displaced when the plant closes in March 2009.

“Syracuse China has been a fixture in the community for generations, and I am deeply concerned that Salina will be losing this long-time partner that has been so intertwined in the area’s growth and identity,” said Senator Clinton. “This news comes at an especially difficult time this holiday season, when hardworking people across New York are struggling to make ends meet. The 275 hardworking employees at this facility have helped to build the company’s reputation of excellence, and I sincerely hope that Libbey does all it can to provide the benefits and assistance they have earned.”

A copy of Senator Clinton’s letter is attached -

December 10, 2008

Mr. John F. Meier
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Libbey Inc.
300 Madison Avenue
Toledo, Ohio 43604

Dear Mr. Meier:

I write to you in regards to the Syracuse China manufacturing facility in Salina, NY. I was deeply disappointed to learn that this factory will be closing in March 2009 and eliminating 275 local jobs. As you know, Syracuse China has been a pillar in its namesake community for more than 130 years. This is a major blow not only to the hardworking employees and their families who are directly affected by the factory closure, but also to the entire Central New York community that has taken so much pride in the long, rich history of Syracuse China.

It is my understanding that the reason for the closure of the Syracuse China plant is due to the effects of the economic downturn and that the plant had not met financial expectations. It is my sincere hope that you ensure that adequate severance is provided to these employees, many of whom have spent their entire careers working for Syracuse China. These employees, like millions of others across the country, are facing a difficult and uncertain road ahead, and I stand ready to do all that I can to make sure that they receive the assistance and benefits they deserve.

I would ask that you, or the appropriate member of your staff, contact my office in order to update me on this situation and your plan to assist the displaced Syracuse China work force in Salina.

Sincerely,

Hillary Rodham Clinton

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