SENATOR SUSAN COLLINS SAYS DECISION BY GNP MANAGEMENT TO STEP ASIDE IS THE RIGHT ONE

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Susan Collins today said the decision by management at Great Northern Paper Company to step aside and allow an independent third party to assume control of the mills is in the best interests of the workers, the mills, and the future of the communities. "Time is critically important in finding a new buyer for the mills, and this has saved us weeks, if not months, of legal wrangling" said Senator Collins.

"I'm pleased that, working together, the parties have come to an agreement that puts us on the road to reopening the Millinocket and East Millinocket mills as soon as possible. This is an important and immensely positive development. I commend the Governor's office for facilitating the negotiations that have led to this first step. I will continue to do everything I can to return workers to the paper machines, find a buyer for the mills, and assist the Katahdin communities which have been severely affected by these developments" the Senator said.

A new management team, led by former paper company executive James M. Giffune will run Great Northern Paper Company, pending approval by the court.

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