Workers at StarKist Samoa in American Samoa will be out of work for five weeks when the plant shuts down later this month have sought federal assistance.
Photo: RNZI / Monica Miller
The shutdown is needed to install equipment and other upgrades to ensure the plant works more efficiently.
US congresswoman's local director, Pulu Ae Ae Jr, said the workers wanted to see if there is any means of earning a living during the planned shutdown.
He said he had discussed it with some lawmakers but it doesn't appear that there's any help forthcoming from the government.
KHJ News asked the deputy director of Human Resources Makerita Enesi if their department is providing any temporary training or job placement for the starkest workers, which number about 2000, but they are not.
The cannery shutdown is from 21 October to 26 November.
