WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Daniel K. Inouye and Daniel K. Akaka announced today they have written to Labor Secretary Elaine Chao to expedite a National Emergency grant for the re-training and job placement of Aloha Airline's laid-off workers.

The text of the letter, dated April 15, 2008, follows:

"We are writing to bring a most urgent matter to your attention, and what is being called the largest single job termination in Hawaii's history.  We are speaking about the passenger service shutdown of Hawaii's second largest air carrier, Aloha Airlines, which had served our residents and visitors for more than 60 years.  It is without question a most devastating blow to our state from both macro and micro economic standpoints.

"Aloha Airlines filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on March 20, shut down its passenger service on March 31, and laid off approximately 1,900 workers without either a final paycheck or other forms of severance pay.  Employees are struggling with financial obligations, medical challenges, and, of course, searching for new employment opportunities.  In this regard, the Hawaii State Department of Labor and Industrial Relations is in the process of preparing a National Emergency grant to support the re-training and job placement needs of these 1,900 displaced workers.  We are in direct contact with the department, and are encouraging its expeditious compilation of the grant application.  Time is truly of the essence.  Upon the State's submission, we would like to be assured that sufficient monies exist to fully fund this application.

"Accordingly, your attention to this matter is most appreciated.  Thanks again for your consideration."

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