Look on bright side of unemployment as Tamarkin ends Mahoning Valley operations
The unemployment rate
in America is 5.5 percent. This rate has fluctuated from 4.4 to 10.0 percent over the past ten years. Mahoning County will add to the unemployment statistics due to rejection in voting on a labor contract for Tamarkin, which now plans to close.
Tamarkin is a privately owned company. It’s more known for Giant Eagle since that is its retail support center’s parent company. The company supplies fresh fruits, vegetables, and dairy products to local grocery stores. Recently, employees were forced to vote on a severance package the company had offered. Although the package provides a continuation of health care and pay, some employees felt there was not sufficient financial security.
It’s nearly impossible to survive without a steady income. Without financial security, many people turn to the government for assistance.
In Tamarkin’s situation, the employees may eventually have to rely on unemployment aid. With another Mahoning Valley operation closing, 200 local jobs will be lost, increasing the unemployment rate. Unemployment affects society and the economy negatively. Factors include income per person, health costs, health-care quality, and poverty. The government pays for unemployment benefits that puts America in deeper debt. Spending power would decrease for everyone.
However, some of those who are unemployed may view the situation positively. They would still have monthly payments to live on along with more free time. Free time could lead to opportunities such as discovering new interests, figuring out a new career strategy, or even furthering education.
It’s evident that there are both positives and negatives when it comes to unemployment. The person who is unemployed can actually benefit even though society and the economy suffer.
Kathryn Heffron,
Boardman