Posted by Sudbury Northern Life
"It is a difficult situation for the company and community to be in. The companies did sign agreements that they would not lay off for three years. We are not at that yet. Vale Inco may have hired more people than they laid off but they are still cutting jobs," said David Peck, a Cambrian College energy systems technology student.
He said he thinks the city can handle the recent mining related
layoffs announced by Vale Inco and Xstrata because the city is
more diversified than before.
"There are enough government services and other industries
though, so I think it won't be too bad."
Cab driver Rob Savarie says the layoffs are an indication of where the economy is going.
"It is unfortunate. I feel for those people who have lost
their jobs. I hope it will turn around. Apparently Canada's
economy is the best in the world."
So far his job has not been affected.
"We have not felt the impact on the cab business yet. People still need cabs. We'll see when summer hits though."
Savarie said, when his clients are in the cab, there is usually talk of more cuts by mining companies.
"If that happens the city will change. I am not sure of the impact."
"The worst was the whole year when Inco was shut down. Then they took them back and everything was fine. But this time they are not keeping their promise not to lay off for three years" said Isabelle Jarbeau.
"It is hard enough on families when the men are getting laid off. I think there will be more layoffs at Vale Inco. Look at what Falconbridge (Xstrata) did. There will be more layoffs coming."
