layoffs

Global computer giant IBM — one of Vermont's largest private employers — was legally required to tell the state how many employees were laid off in the latest round of job cuts at Essex Junction. And it did so. Now, it doesn't want the American public to find out because that would be bad for business.

Yet another wave of layoffs hits IBM's domestic operations, and once again, the multinational corporation is being completely tight-lipped about the cutbacks. However, it is apparent that dozens of Vermonters (at least) have lost their jobs at Essex Junction. Alliance@IBM, a union group, estimates this week's layoffs at over 1,600 nationwide — and it expects the total to go higher.