Samoa Tuna Processors says it still plans to suspend canning operations sometime during the week of December 11.
However it is considering extending operations a few days in order to complete some pending contracts.
That’s according to Heidi Happonen, the spokesperson for Tri Marine International, the parent company of STP.
Governor Lolo Moliga told a cabinet meeting two weeks ago that a group has been formed to look at possible assistance for the displaced workers numbering about 800, and he directed that an application for federal help be submitted as soon as possible.
After the closure of the Samoa Packing plant in 2009, ASG was successful in obtaining a National Emergency Grant from the US Department of Labor of $34 million.
Tri Marine spokesperson Happonen said, “We are hopeful that the advanced notice we provided has aided in helping employees find alternative employment.
“We also remain committed to maximizing the facility for logistics and continue to support efforts to secure a future for STP, including selling it.”
