Homepage > Honolulu Jobs
E-Mail News Alerts
Get breaking news and daily headlines.
Browse all e-mail newsletters
Related To Story
DEL MONTE CLOSING
TIMELINE


Del Monte Shuts Down Operations Immediately

POSTED: 4:00 pm HST November 17, 2006
UPDATED: 5:45 pm HST November 17, 2006

About 700 pineapple workers at Del Monte received word on Friday that they are out of jobs.

Del Monte shut down its operations on Friday. In February, the company told its workers that it would end its crop planting and harvesting in 2008.

Del Monte officials also informed the union and the governor that the company was moving up the closure date.

The union representing Del Monte employees said it was as surprised as the workers about the sudden closure.

"We were caught flat-footed. Theoretically flat-footed because we were told in the past, once we went through negotiations we were told 'Don't worry, Del Monte's here to stay.' (We) find out later that Del Monte's closing," said Earl Totten of the ILWU.

Union officials scheduled a meeting again on Tuesday.

The plantation will officially close on Jan. 22. By filing a notice on Friday, it fulfilled the state requirement for 60-day notice.

Gov. Linda Lingle said that the state will do everything it can to cushion the blow from the layoffs.

Officials plan to help workers know their rights and benefits.

Del Monte officials have cited the cost of production for the reason it planned to close. They said the company could buy the pineapple for lower cost in many places.


Links We Like

In the workplace it’s the little things that get you noticed and help you stand out above the rest. Do these things and increase your chances for a promotion. More

If your credit is shabby, you'll need to shore up your score to convince a lender you're worthy. Here's how to boost your point total. More

Everyone is trying to save a little cash these days, and one way to do it is by having an easy to insure car. Check out 20 cars that can save you money. More

Though stress does not cause irritable bowel syndrome, it can trigger or intensify your symptoms. Learn more to help manage your IBS. More

Sponsored Links

Job Searching Tips

Struggling to find a great job in a bad economy can be tough, but these eight tips can help improve your chances of landing a gig. More