HONOLULU — Department of Labor and Industrial Relations representatives will discuss current and future efforts to assist those affected by the recent shutdown of Moloka'i Ranch's operations during a meeting of the governor's Moloka'i Community Advisory Council at 3 p.m. Tuesday at the Kulana 'Oiwi, DHHL/OHA Conference Room, 600 Maunaloa Highway, in Kaunakakai. The public is invited.

Last month, a multi-agency Rapid Response Team led by the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations met with the affected employees to provide information on unemployment insurance, job training and placement and medical benefits.

The state's Rapid Response Team is surveying workers to evaluate their job skills and determine how many people need training and what type of job placement assistance is required. Officials are also reaching out to businesses to identify potential job opportunities. The team is also working with the Department of Human Services First-to-Work office on Moloka'i to provide direct employment assistance and the support services necessary to find employment.

The Moloka'i Community Advisory Council holds monthly public meetings to seek community input and advise the governor of important issues on Moloka'i. The council also recommends potential nominees for state boards and commissions.

The members of the governor's Moloka'i Community Advisory Council are Robert Granger, Janice Kalanihuia, Jersula Manaba, Marlene Purdy and Weldon Wichman.

Anyone requiring special assistance or accommodations to participate at this meeting may call 586-0034. For additional information on Neighbor Island Community Advisory Councils, including meeting minutes and agendas, visit the governor's Web site at www.hawaii.gov/gov.