WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Labor today awarded a $569,230 grant to provide employment-related assistance to approximately 180 workers affected by the closure of the Del Monte Fresh Produce Inc. processing plant in Kunia, Hawaii. Workers affected by the closure were also certified as eligible to apply for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) and Alternative Trade Adjustment Assistance (ATAA) on Jan. 9, 2007.

"Hawaiians affected by the closure of the Del Monte plant will receive help in securing new jobs," said U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. "Through this $569,230 grant and the services available through the TAA program, these workers will have better opportunities to build new careers."

On Nov. 17, 2006, Del Monte Fresh Produce announced the permanent closure of the Kunia plant. The state conducted several rapid response sessions with impacted employees to inform them of the services available to meet their reemployment needs.

The grant, awarded to the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, will provide affected workers with services not covered under the TAA program. Services will include assessment, case management and job placement assistance to impacted workers.

National Emergency Grants are part of the Secretary of Labor'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, please visit www.doleta.gov/NEG/.