Maine Department of Labor Assisting Workers at Verso in Bucksport

*Rapid Response team will schedule sessions and apply for Trade assistance*

Bucksport, Maine - The Rapid Response team of the Maine Department of Labor has contacted the owners of Verso Paper Corp. in Bucksport. The WARN notification will be issued today with an anticipated closure date of December 1, 2014. The power plant will stay open. This shut down is anticipated to affect more than 400 union workers and an additional 100-plus salaried employees.

"This is a true loss for the region," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "We are putting all of our available resources into assisting these workers, this industry and this region and we are also going to assist in the search for a buyer for this operation."

The Rapid Response team will be meeting with the union and company officials as soon as possible
to set up a plan of action including filing for Trade assistance and working with all partners in that area. A regional transition team is already in place and has been addressing the needs of workers affected by the other recent mill layoffs in the region.

The most recent Trade certification for Verso Bucksport expired in January of 2014.

The Bangor CareerCenter will be the point of contact for those affected. The CareerCenter, located at 45 Oak Street, Suite 3, Bangor is open 8 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.