"I am hopeful that the shutdown is truly temporary, since Eastern Pulp and Paper is such an important economic anchor in Penobscot County. While negotiations continue to keep the company open, workers' interests must be kept in mind and they must be kept informed so they are not left in a state of limbo without their paychecks.
"I am disturbed that another 750 workers in Maine are being cut off from their jobs because of circumstances beyond their control, even after so many have dedicated many years of hard work. I will do everything possible to help dislocated workers through this difficult time."