Hundreds of workers at Stelco in Hamilton are facing an uncertain future following the company’s announcement to indefinitely halt its cold-rolled and coated operations at the Hamilton Works plant. Ron Wells, the president of United Steelworkers Local 1005, stated that the wind-down is set to commence on October 9, leading to around 350 Hamilton plant employees being laid off initially. The total layoffs could reach up to 500, including those from the Lake Erie Works plant in Nanticoke, Ontario. Expressing his dismay, Wells emphasized, “I hate using ‘we’re disappointed’ — we’re disgusted.”
The impending layoffs have caused distress among families connected to the plant. Jillian Watt, whose husband has worked at Stelco in Hamilton for 21 years, shared her concerns as her husband awaits news on potential layoffs. She stressed the impact on their family due to the uncertainty surrounding their main source of income. The ongoing strike at National Steel Car has added to the tension for the workers.
Watt highlighted her worries about potential layoffs being based on seniority and the anxiety surrounding the loss of their primary income source. The situation has been exacerbated by recent plant idling and reduced orders, leading to heightened stress while awaiting further developments.
Regarding job commitments, Wells revealed that the union was informed of the layoffs during a meeting with the company, raising concerns among workers about the duration of the layoffs and the lack of clarity on a return date. He emphasized the need for transparency and questioned the job commitments made by Cleveland-Cliffs during the Stelco acquisition.
Pat Persico from Cleveland-Cliffs mentioned that the company’s overall steel output would not be impacted by the Hamilton plant idling, as production will be consolidated at Lake Erie Works. Persico assured that affected employees might be offered job opportunities at the Nanticoke facility.
Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath expressed disappointment over the decision, emphasizing the city’s efforts to work with federal and provincial authorities to address the situation. She reiterated the city’s commitment to protecting jobs and ensuring that commitments made to workers are honored. The impact of the layoffs has been described as “devastating” for Hamilton, with local leaders and politicians pledging support to maintain operations and safeguard jobs during these challenging times.
