In Response to Closure Announcement, Snowe and Collins Voice Support for Domtar Workers at Woodland Facility in Baileyville

Press Release

U.S. Senators Olympia J. Snowe and Susan Collins (R-Maine) today released the following joint statement in response to the announcement from Domtar that the company plans to idle its Woodland Facility in Baileyville on May 5, 2009. Citing the harsh economic climate and falling demand, Domtar will shutter the pulp facility for an "undetermined period," displacing 317 workers.

"The fallout from the economic downturn continues to affect workers and families throughout Maine and we are deeply distressed by the closure of one of Washington County's largest employers and principle pulp manufacturers in our state. We will work to alleviate the stress of these lay-offs on Washington County and help provide access to any available forms of federal assistance that may assist our fellow Mainers during this tragic time and to help find gainful employment."

"Representatives from our state offices have already been in contact with the Maine Department of Labor, Governor Baldacci, and the town managers of Baileyville and Eastport. We stand ready to assist so that workers can begin the process of finding a new job when the time is appropriate, and access community resources to help them through their employment transition. We will also work closely with Domtar officials, the governor and the local community to ensure the future viability of the mill."

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