Local leaders are responding today to the news that METSO Outotec in North Bay will be closing down in the summer of 2021.
Metso Outototec, formerly Metso Minerals, located near Canadore's Commerce Court Campus in the industrial park, is restructuring its consumables wears manufacturing operations in North America and discontinuing factory operations in North Bay.
In a release, the company says production will be ramped down by the end of June 2021.
Al McDonald, North Bay's Mayor, says this is unfortunate news for the region.
"I spoke with company representatives this morning and we have offered to assist in any way we can," McDonald said.
"Our thoughts are with the employees at this time."
The plant has been around in North Bay for more than 40 years.
See related: Local mining company shutting its doors
McDonald says Metso has been a good corporate citizen in our community.
"This announcement is a part of a global restructuring, which, unfortunately, is not all that uncommon in today’s economy," noted McDonald.
"This is an important reason why City Council must stay focused on growth and continue to provide assistance to local businesses and work to help attract new businesses and industry to North Bay. The global economy is changing rapidly and we are committed more than ever to business growth and retention."
Peter Chirico, President of the North Bay & District Chamber of Commerce told CKAT this news is hard to swallow.
"As for the 65 employees who are going to be out of work, we hope that we will be able to assist in finding new employment in the mining sector," Chirico told CKAT's Bob Coles.
"Out of every bad news hopefully there will be a silver lining and that we are able to source out as a city, as a mining industry, somebody to fill that building and find work for those 65 people who will be displaced.
Chirico adds that it will take some time and effort on behalf of the city and all of the economic development partners throughout to replace this and now they need to work together to look at ways in which they can fill that space which will otherwise be empty by June 2021.
Vic Fedeli, Nipissing MPP, says he's very disappointed to learn of the closure at this important employer in North Bay.
"We understand the impact to workers, their families, and their communities, and stand together with these employees during this difficult time," said Fedeli in a statement.
"Our government is committed to continue working in partnership with businesses and workers in Northern Ontario and across the province to respond to the challenges they face and to support our long-term economic recovery.
"The Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development will be implementing their Rapid Re-Employment and Training Services program to support the affected workers and ensure that affected employees are aware of available resources and programming to find their next job. Our Action Centres provide one-on-one peer counselling and job search assistance for affected workers, continued Fedeli.
"In this time of uncertainty for so many workers and their families in Northern Ontario, it is important to remain positive, hopeful, and continue looking towards the future. By working together, we can ensure we recover as a province and emerge from this pandemic stronger than ever before."
