It is reported that many steelworkers at Republic Engineered Products' Eighth Street NE plant are working periodically as the economy slows.

Mr Bruce Witts recording secretary and grievance committee chairman for Steelworkers Local 1200 said that "With about 500 in the union, some weeks, we have about 400 laid off. Two weeks out of the month, we are near full production. Two weeks out of the month, we are at minimal production."

During the reduced staff periods, the plant may run ancillary services, but the melt shop and caster are shut down.

(Sourced from www.torontoseeker.com)