MADISON — A paper mill is set to begin a temporary layoff of many of its employees as it cuts production.

Company officials say Madison Paper Industries will close from Saturday until about Feb. 9. The company employs about 220 people and company representatives have declined to say exactly how many will be out of work.

Madison President Russ Drechsel says market conditions and increased energy costs necessitate the cut in production. He also says the mill has struggled since the government of Nova Scotia provided more than $125 million in subsidies to restart a Canadian paper mill in Port Hawkesbury. Maine lawmakers are calling for the federal government to investigate the subsidies.

Copy the Story Link