Closure of the Metal Powders Factory Causes Ripples in Industry

Rio Tinto Fer et Titane Announces Closure of Sorel Metal Powders Plant by Year’s End
Local Union Members to Address Upcoming Challenges
Rio Tinto Fer et Titane has announced the closure of its Metal Powders plant in Sorel by December. Members of Local 7493 are set to meet soon to address the implications of this significant development.
The 181 metal workers of Local 7493 initiated a strike on July 10. “This decision comes amid challenging international trade conditions, with commercial policies pressuring the industry and a global surplus,” stated Nicolas Lapierre, Quebec Director of the Métallos.
Legal Response and Worker Rights Protection
The legal team of the Syndicat des Métallos is actively involved in discussions regarding the closure protocol. “We are committed to ensuring that the workers’ rights are respected throughout this process. It’s a tough situation for the workers, and we regret the company’s decision, which seems to use the strike as a precedent for this business move,” added Lapierre.
The Role and Reach of the Syndicat des Métallos
The Syndicat des Métallos, affiliated with the FTQ, is the largest private-sector union in Quebec. It represents over 60,000 workers across various economic sectors, ensuring the voice and rights of workers are heard and protected.