Uncertainty and disappointment as Stelco workers await layoff list

It was worry and uncertainty today for hundreds of Stelco workers waiting to find out if they are on the company’s most recent layoff list.

Stelco announced on Monday that up to 500 employees at its Hamilton and Lake Erie facilities could be affected by job cuts.

“I use the term disappointed, but it’s more we’re disgusted in what’s going on,” said Ron Wells, president of United Steelworkers Local 1005.

Stelco workers and union representatives are in a state of limbo before the company hands out the layoff list.

“They have no idea what’s going on. It’s just chaos,” said a Stelco worker.

The company cited the ongoing trade crisis, weak demand and continued import pressure in its layoff announcement.

READ MORE: Stelco to indefinitely idle Hamilton Works operations, impacting up to 500 employees

Local union reps say the American steel manufacturer that owns Stelco, Cleveland-Cliffs, has not kept its promise and needs to be held accountable.

“They said trust us, we are not like U.S. Steel, we’re committing to no reductions in the operations for five years, and here we are two years later and they’re telling us there is going to be a huge reduction,” said Wells.

Ontario’s Minister of Finance says the province offered to help Stelco, and the company declined.

“They weren’t interested is my understanding. It’s unfortunate because we have done that … for Algoma [Steel]. And we stand ready to support our steel industry,” said Peter Bethlenfalvy.

The federal government also informed CHCH News that Stelco also rejected its offer of financial help.

The layoffs in Hamilton will come into effect on Oct. 9, and at the Nanticoke facility on Oct. 24.