WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration (ETA) has awarded a grant of $467,757 to assist approximately 120 Massachusetts workers affected by the closing of the Endoscopy Division of Smith & Nephew Inc., located in Andover, Mass. Workers affected by the closure were previously certified as eligible to receive Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) on Feb. 1, 2006.

“This grant will help workers affected by this closing prepare for new careers and access assistance in addition to the TAA program services they are already receiving,” said Emily Stover DeRocco, assistant secretary of labor for employment and training. “Through the combined resources that this grant and the TAA program offer, these individuals will have the opportunity to transition into new careers in industries experiencing high growth.”

On Nov. 29, 2005, Smith & Nephew Inc. announced the closure of its endoscopic manufacturing facility in Andover. Layoffs began March 31, 2006, and are expected to continue through April 30, 2007.

The grant, awarded to the Massachusetts Department of Workforce Development, will provide affected workers with services that are not covered under the TAA program. Services provided through the grant will include assessment, counseling and case management.

National Emergency Grants are part of the Secretary of Labor's discretionary fund and are awarded based on a state's ability to meet specific guidelines. For more information on National Emergency Grants and other Labor Department employment and training programs, visit www.doleta.gov/NEG/.