The union representing 1,000 Algoma Steel workers facing layoffs in Sault Ste. Marie says it is opening a centre to help the people affected by the job cuts. Working with the Canadian Skills Training and Employment Coalition (CSTEC), the United Steel Workers is opening a POWER (Protect Ontario Workers Employment Response) Centre, with funding from the province. The goal is to have the centre open by Dec. 15 at 68 Dennis St., providing in-person support. “The Steelworker POWER Action Centre will support affected workers through individualized action plans based on their needs,” the union said in a news release Tuesday. “Services include job search assistance, short-term training, guidance on employment insurance and training eligibility and referrals to community agencies where appropriate.” The exact opening date will be announced shortly. Impacted workers can register for help by clicking here. “Whether it’s technological change, market instability or unfair trade actions that cause major disruptions, workers deserve timely, reliable support,” Ken Delaney, executive director of CSTEC, said in the news release. Standing together “The Steelworker POWER Action Centre will play a crucial role in ensuring people receive the help they need during this difficult transition.” Kevon Stewart, director of United Steelworkers District 6, said it’s important that union members stand together in moments of uncertainty. “When workers visit the Steelworker POWER Action Centre, they will meet peers who understand the stress and trauma of sudden job loss,” Stewart said in the release. “The centre will ensure Steelworkers in Sault Ste. Marie receive the support, training and pathways needed to rebuild and move forward.” David Piccini, Ontario Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, said the layoffs are being driven by U.S. tariffs, “We have begun to stand up the Steelworker POWER Action Centre in just days, faster than any previous centre, so we can protect impacted workers and make sure they immediately get the support,” Piccini said in the release. “We’re going to keep fighting for Steelworkers in Sault Ste. Marie and across Ontario who have been impacted by tariffs.” He said the province will use Ontario steel “whenever and however we can” when it moves forward with its $220 billion provincial infrastructure plan. The province will also be “pushing the federal government to do the same in its infrastructure and procurement spending.” As a long-time partner of the Steelworkers, CSTEC has helped thousands of workers navigate layoffs, access retraining, transition to skilled trades and secure new employment.
