Department of Labor Assisting Portland Businesses Affected by Fire

September 19, 2013

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 19, 2013
Contact: Julie Rabinowitz, 207-621-5009

Rapid Response will help workers who may face temporary layoffs while businesses rebuild

AUGUSTA ? The Rapid Response team of the Maine Department of Labor has contacted the businesses affected by the Old Port fire in Portland. Workers who will be out of a job while the businesses clean out and rebuild may be eligible for unemployment benefits and other services.

?Some businesses may be shut down for several days while others might need several weeks to get ready to serve customers again,? said Governor Paul R. LePage. ?Staff from the Portland CareerCenter are reaching out to help these workers and businesses get through the challenges the fire caused.?

There will be an informational meeting for those employees affected by the Portland fire on Friday, Sept. 20, from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Portland CareerCenter on 185 Lancaster Street. Workers can call 771-5627 for more information. TTY users should dial Maine Relay 711.

The Rapid Response program of the Bureau of Employment Services assists workers facing job loss due to downsizing or closures. The Department of Labor can advise and assist employers and employees with information about their rights, responsibilities and obligations during such an event to safeguard the economic stability of workers and the surrounding community.

To find out more about the Rapid Response program, contact your local CareerCenter. The Bureau of Employment Services provides a variety of employment and training services for Maine workers, businesses and jobseekers through the Maine CareerCenter network, http://www.mainecareercenter.com/ .

Maine CareerCenters are equal opportunity providers. Auxiliary aids and services are available to individuals with disabilities upon request.

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