Governor Janet Mills issued the following statement in response to an announcement from Sappi that it will permanently shut Paper Machine No. 9 and major components of the energy complex at the Westbrook mill:
“This is sad news for Maine, particularly for the 75 hardworking folks who will be most impacted by the shutdown of this paper machine. The Maine Department of Labor stands ready to help these employees through this difficult time by providing unemployment insurance, job training, and any other appropriate assistance. I spoke with Sappi North America’s CEO this morning, and he assured me that the company’s operations at the Somerset Mill are unaffected by this decision and that the mill is in an economically productive position for the long term. Sappi is a valued employer in our state, and my Administration will continue to support their ongoing R&D efforts in Westbrook, which are crucial as we continue to transform and revitalize our forest products industry, a vital pillar of our state’s economy that supports the livelihoods of thousands of Maine people.”