WASHINGTON-Senator Daniel K. Inouye issued the following statement today upon receiving word that Maui Land and Pineapple Co. has decided to end pineapple production and lay off 285 employees.

“Our sputtering economy continues to hurt long time Hawaii institutions and the loss of Maui Pine impacts the lives and families of 285 workers.  Since the company went public in 1969 it has served as a vital cog in our local economy through its agriculture, resort and real estate operations.  My sympathies go out to the workers and families affected by this closure.  I stand ready to direct whatever federal assistance the law allows and I will continue to do all I can in Washington to ensure that the federal government is supporting the local economy as best it can during these turbulent economic times,” said Senator Inouye.