Maine Governor Meets with Officials in Wells to Discuss Impact of Closure of RR Donnelley

March 6, 2009 -- WELLS – Maine Governor John E. Baldacci today met with officials in the Town of Wells to discuss the impact of the planned closure of RR Donnelley. The printing plant announced on Wednesday that it plans to close its Wells facility in June, affecting 370 workers.

“We are here for the workers, here for the families and here for the community,” Governor Baldacci said. “This will have a huge impact for the region and for the State. Acting Town Manager Mike Houston and other officials in the area are already thinking about what else can be done. It gives you a great sense of confidence that people are looking forward and not dwelling on the past.”

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The Governor was joined at the meeting by Department of Labor Commissioner Laura Fortman, Sen. Richard Nass (R-York), Rep. Kathleen Chase (R-Wells), Rep. Dawn Hill (D-York), Wells Acting Town Manager Mike Houston, York County Community College President Dr. Charles Lyons and other town officials.

The Governor said that officials from the Department of Labor will be in town on March 10 to begin Rapid Response sessions. He spoke of resources available to workers, including continuing health insurance coverage through COBRA. Additionally, York County Community College will offer one free class to workers who have been laid off.

“First and foremost, the biggest concern is taking care of the workers who will be impacted,” the Governor said. “This is a difficult time in terms of the deep recession we are experiencing. But we are Mainers. We are resilient and strong, and we will get through this.”

Source: Maine Governor