The head of Steelworkers Local 2251 says it was a surprise to him that Essar Steel Algoma has decided to layoff around 100-employees.  Mike Da Prat says they didn’t expect this at all—-they weren’t aware the company was at this point.  Da Prat says it is definitely market driven and he says the federal government has not been proactive in dealing with the dumping of steel products.  Company Manager of Corporate Communications Brenda Stenta says the layoffs are temporary and the company is hoping the market will revese itself in 2-quarters.  Da Prat says the company has indicated to the union that the cuts could become deeper…

Da Prat talks about what areas of the plant will be impacted…

The Layoffs will take effect as of Monday.