SUDBURY - Toronto-based INCO LTD. has been reviewing the operation of its high-cost Copper Cliff copper refinery for some time, which has lead to rumours of its closing. The 70-year-old refinery is in need of upgrading to bring down operating costs in line with other large copper producers. A scheduled maintenance shutdown is to begin later this month.
Representatives of the UNITED STEELWORKERS union have vowed "war" against the company if it abandons the plant. They want the Ontario government to step in to save the refinery by demanding that Inco continue to refine copper in the province.
CMJ readers must remember that the closure of the copper refinery is only a rumour.
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