Ms Brenda Stenta manager of corporate communications at Essar Steel Algoma said that, with more temporary layoffs announced this week, the total number of hourly workers off the job at Essar Steel Algoma has reached 500.

She added that "As several projects across the steelworks come to a close and production levels remain below capacity, additional temporary layoffs were announced this week. We continue to do everything possible to keep people working during these difficult times."

Ms Stenta said that Essar Steel Algoma is adjusting its workforce to fit the demand as effectively as it can while still trying to minimize the impacts of reduced production on its workers and the community at large.

She added that "Essar is concerned about the impact of layoffs on employees and their families and we are offering a variety of support services to help them through this difficult time. We look forward to welcoming them back as order volumes improve."

Ms Stenta also said that it's important to remember staff levels fluctuate with production on a weekly basis.

(Sourced from www.sootoday.com)