Maine Department of Labor Assisting Workers at Verso in Jay Bookmark and Share

August 20, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 20, 2015
Contact: Julie Rabinowitz, 621-5009, cell: 557-1483

Rapid Response team will schedule sessions and apply for Trade assistance

AUGUSTA ? The Rapid Response team of the Maine Department of Labor has contacted the human resources regional managers of Verso Paper Corp. regarding the proposed reductions in staffing at the Jay mill. The WARN notification will be issued today with a projected layoff of up to 300 workers. The company anticipates that these layoffs will occur over a period of several months.

?The cost of doing business in Maine continues to have a negative effect on our workers and their families,? said Governor Paul R. LePage. ?As we did last fall in Bucksport, we will use all available resources to assist these workers and the Jay community.?

The Rapid Response team will be meeting with company officials as soon as possible to set up a plan of action including filing for Trade assistance and working with all partners in the area.

?Our team can answer questions families will have over the coming months and help them plan for this transition,? said Commissioner of Labor Jeanne Paquette. ?Our assistance is not limited to unemployment benefits, but includes information about health insurance options, career planning, training support and job search guidance. Do not hesitate to contact the CareerCenter to ask for help. Many people will be facing difficult choices and support is available to aid you and your family as you consider your options.?

Workers in this area are served by the Wilton, Skowhegan and Lewiston CareerCenters. The Wilton CareerCenter, located at 865 US Route 2E in Wilton, and the Skowhegan CareerCenter, located at 98 North Avenue, Skowhegan, are open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Lewiston CareerCenter, located at 5 Mollison Way in Lewiston, is open 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. More information is available on the CareerCenter website, http://www.mainecareercenter.com .

The Rapid Response program of the Bureau of Employment Services assists workers facing job loss due to downsizing or temporary or permanent 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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