Currently, even though Masonite's own records show that they could operate this line in question on a limited basis without exceeding emission standards, they have chosen to shut the line down and lay off at least 45 employees. We are very disappointed that Masonite has chosen this course of action.
Masonite has known for a long while that they had a problem with this new line - and they have received numerous citations. Instead of acting responsibly to fix the problem as quickly and efficiently as possible so people wouldn't have to be laid off, they chose to proceed until a crisis existed - jeopardizing the health of the public and their employees. Then they compounded the problem and exacerbated the polarization in the community by laying off employees - of course, blaming "environmentalists" and people concerned about increasing health problems for the lay- offs. If people had to be laid off while Masonite corrects the problem, they should be given leave with pay for the interim period. It is indeed a sad state of affairs when corporations act to convince their employees that those who seek to make them operate within the law are "the enemy."
No one wants employees to suffer, and we would like to see the community come together in support of the Masonite employees who were just laid off. Anyone interested in organizing a support group with and for these employees is urged to contact the MEC. We will put you in touch with others who are also interested. The community must do what the corporations won't.
Copyright Mendocino Environmental Center 2004
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