STATE INITIATES "RAPID RESPONSE" TO CORNING PLANT CLOSING

SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George H. Ryan today announced that the Department of Commerce and Community Affair's Rapid Response Unit has already begun the process of helping more than 300 workers affected by the closing of the Corning Consumer Products Company in Clinton.

"This closing is a heavy blow to Clinton and its citizens," Ryan said. "Workers displaced by the shut-down need help, and we will do all we can to provide the necessary assistance and training to re-enter the workforce."

The Rapid Response Unit is in the process of scheduling an on-site meeting with Corning Consumer Products Company representatives. Contact has also been established with the AFL-CIO Manpower Assistance Group and the Decatur office of the Department of Employment Security.

At the on-site meeting, the Rapid Response Unit will explain state and local services and initiate planning for re-adjustment and re-training services. Dates will also be set for informational workshops for Corning workers. A wide variety of activities take place at the workshops including a description of Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) services, job search and placement assistance, and GED, vocational and classroom training.

"Our goal is to give Corning workers the skills that are in demand from employers throughout the state," said Acting DCCA Director Pam McDonough. "We hope that will result in these employees being able to weather this plant closing with as little disruption as possible to their careers and home life."