Application for Help for STP Workers a “Work in Progress”

samoa-tuna

The group set up by Governor Lolo Moliga to explore and seek assistance for employees of Samoa Tuna Processors who will be losing their jobs in two weeks is collecting data for the territory’s application to the federal government .

A member of the committee, Director of Commerce Keniseli Lafaele, says the application will be submitted under the Dislocated Worker Grant program of the Department of Labor.

DOL’s National Dislocated Worker Grants (DWGs), formerly known as National Emergency Grants (NEGs), are discretionary grants awarded by the Secretary of Labor, and provide resources to states and territories to respond to large, unexpected layoff events causing significant job losses.

This funding is intended to temporarily expand capacity to serve dislocated workers, including military service members, and meet the increased demand for employment and training services, with a purpose to reemploy laid off workers and enhance their employability and earnings.

Lafaele said the application is a work in progress.

Data from surveys or existing information is needed from Samoa Tuna Processors for the application.

He said data determines what portion of dislocated workers are eligible for assistance, and existing skill sets among the would be dislocated workers.

He says once the application is completed and submitted, it takes about 30 days or less to get a determination from the federal agency.

Tri Marine international, the parent company of Samoa Tuna Processors, has indicated it still plans to close its canning operations the week of December 11, but may delay the actual closing date in order to fulfill current supply contracts.

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