U.S. Department of Labor announces nearly $300,000 grant to assist workers in Oregon affected by layoffs at Bayliner Marine

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $299,232 grant to assist approximately 52 workers affected by layoffs at Bayliner Marine in Roseburg, Ore.

"Today's grant will allow affected workers to access employment and training services so they can begin new careers in Roseburg and surrounding areas," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "With the unemployment rate above eight percent, it is vital that the Labor Department use every resource at its disposal to assist workers who have lost their jobs."

Awarded to the Oregon Department of Community Colleges and Workforce Development, this grant will provide employment-related services to affected workers. Services will include case management, career counseling, individual employment plan development, job-search assistance, on-the-job training and case coordination for long- and short-term training. The grant will be operated by the Oregon Consortium, a private and public partnership established by business leaders and public officials.

In addition, all affected workers have been certified eligible for Trade Adjustment Assistance.

On Oct. 9, 2008, Bayliner Marine announced impending layoffs to result from a plant closure in Roseburg. The layoffs occurred on Dec. 18, 2008.

National Emergency Grants are part of the secretary of labor's discretionary fund and are awarded based on a state's ability to meet specific guidelines. For more information, visit http://www.doleta.gov/NEG/.