Additional layoffs may come in November, says union

The union representing Tenaris Algoma Tubes workers said some kind of additional staff reductions are expected.

No official announcement has been made by the company as of yet.

“What [Tenaris] have been telling us is November isn’t looking good,” said Cody Alexander, president of USW Local 9548.

Alexander said about 240 to 260 members have already been laid off, with about 220 still working full time at the tube mill.

“The numbers fluctuate week to week,” said Alexander.

He said the union expects the mill to continue with further job reductions in November.

“We don’t know if they keep all of them. To run with less tonnage in November they could either go with 120 guys and work them full-time or keep the current number and work them two-on two-off,” said Alexander.

A union meeting is scheduled for tonight for employees.

A spokesperson for Tenaris declined to comment for this story, but said a statement will be released to media tomorrow.

Guillermo Moreno, Canada area manager for Tenaris, held a town hall meeting and question and answer session September 30 during a visit to Sault Ste. Marie.

A posting on the company's Facebook page said Moreno acknowledged challenging times in the industry but emphasized Tenaris has the resources needed to succeed.

Previous SooToday coverage of this story:

New Tenaris cuts hit office, administrative staff

Tube mill situation described as 'hopeful'

(FILE PHOTO)