The Pittsburgh-based company announced the layoffs Thursday, saying it needs to cut costs to keep up with global competition.
During his weekend radio program, Gov. Togiola Tulafono called the decision to lay off the low-paid workers “very hurtful.” Several times during the program, Tulafono said he was angry, disappointed, upset and sadden with StarKist’s plans.
Tulafono said StarKist could have cut costs by reducing the salaries and bonuses of its top officials.
The governor predicts the layoffs will mean job losses in related businesses.
