The Mosaic Co. has confirmed that it has issued layoff notices to some 46 hourly, unionized employees at its Colonsay potash mine in Saskatchewan. Mosaic said the notices were issued as per its collective bargaining agreement, and the employees have been given eight weeks’ notice. Some 506 workers are employed at Colonsay.
Mosaic said the development is in response to current market conditions. Back in September, Mosaic announced that it would be reducing production in its Potash business by extending maintenance downtime at Colonsay, and also maintain slower production in its Phosphate business. At the time, the company cited delayed fertilizer purchases in Brazil and North America.
"This is a very difficult choice for any company to make and Mosaic is no exception," a Mosaic spokesperson told Green Markets. "We are committed to the long term sustainability of our business and will continue to operate as a responsible partner in the community."