Vale has temporarily shut down Coleman Mine for what is says are needed repairs.
According to a statement from Angie Robson, manager of Corporate & Aboriginal Affairs for Vale’s Ontario Operations, the shut down was due to needed repairs in a ventilation shaft, resulting in the cancellation of all workers' shifts without pay.
The mine employs approximately 250 to 300 people.
“As part of an ongoing maintenance review, a decision has been made to expedite some necessary repairs to the shaft’s ventilation compartment at Coleman Mine, which has resulted in operations at Coleman Mine being suspended,” she stated. “Impacted employees have been notified that their shifts are canceled until further notice.
“The repair work is expected to continue into next week. While we recognize this decision is disruptive, our highest priority continues to be the safety of our employees. There is nothing more important than ensuring we all return home safe to our families after each and every shift.”
Calls to the United Steel Workers for comment were not answered as of press time.
