Statement of Governor LePage on El Faro Search and Rescue‏

AUGUSTA, Maine – Governor Paul R. LePage released Monday the following statement with regard to the search for survivors, including four Mainers, from the cargo ship El Faro.

“While Coast Guard officials have suspended the search for El Faro, the search for survivors continues and we are not giving up hope. The First Lady and I are praying for all those aboard, including our four Mainers. During this very difficult time, our hearts go out to the families and friends of our fellow Mainers, as well as the other 29 crew members.”

“Our gratitude also goes to rescue teams who are risking their own lives to find those who are lost. We pray for your safe return and hope those aboard El Faro are brought back to their families.”

Statement of Governor LePage on Alexander Group Contract

AUGUSTA, Maine - Governor Paul R. LePage released the following statement today regarding information received that the Alexander Group report has additional items of plagiarism:



"I am gravely concerned about these accusations and we will get to the bottom of it. Upon learning of this information today, we have taken immediate action and suspended all payments to the Alexander Group. We will continue to look into these accusations and will take further action, including termination of the contract, if warranted."

Governor's Statement on Bankruptcy Filing by Montreal Maine and Atlantic Railway

Augusta, Maine - Late Wednesday afternoon the Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT)
confirmed that the Montreal Maine and Atlantic Railway (MMA) has filed for bankruptcy protection in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Maine. Governor Paul R. LePage released the following statement regarding the filing:

"Maine DOT will vigilantly and actively participate in the bankruptcy and in any related proceedings before the Surface Transportation Board to protect the public interests of the State of Maine and its citizens and the rights of shippers to receive service. It is critical that shippers have accessibility to the rail lines, which provide great economic benefit to our State.

"The LePage Administration is committed to ensuring safe, continuous rail operations within the State of Maine for the benefit of shippers, the business community, and the citizens of the State of Maine.

"In addition, MaineDOT has and will continue to consult and work with the Federal Rail Administration in this situation."