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Algoma Steel Announces Over 1,000 Layoffs Amid Tariffs and Transition

  Reeling from high tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, Algoma Steel confirmed Monday it has issued layoff notices to about 1,000 workers.  Algoma Steel, a major employer in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, has confirmed plans to lay off more than 1,000 workers in the coming months. The company issued 1,050 layoff notices as part of its decision to shut down its blast furnace and coke oven operations, accelerating its transition to electric arc furnace (EAF) technology. The layoffs, expected to take effect by March 23, 2026 , come as Algoma faces mounting financial pressures. The company reported nearly half a billion dollars in losses last quarter and cited “unprecedented tariffs” imposed by the United States as a key factor in reshaping its competitive landscape. Union leaders from United Steelworkers Locals 2724 and 2251 confirmed the layoffs, noting that while the workforce had anticipated job reductions tied to the EAF transition, the U.S. tariffs accelerated ...

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Ireland, Spain, and Norway Recognize Palestinian State: A Historic Move

                             

In a significant and historic development, Ireland, Spain, and Norway have officially recognized the state of Palestine. The move has drawn both praise and criticism from various quarters.

Recognition and Reactions

  • Ireland: Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris described the recognition as “an historic and important day for Ireland and for Palestine.” The decision was coordinated with Spain and Norway, with the aim of advancing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict toward a peaceful resolution through a two-state solution.

  • Spain: Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced the recognition in the Spanish Parliament. European Union countries Spain and Ireland, along with Norway, have taken this step amid international outrage over the civilian death toll and humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip following Israel’s offensive.

  • Norway: Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store and Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide jointly made the announcement in Oslo. Israel’s Foreign Minister Israel Katz swiftly ordered the return of Israel’s ambassadors from both Norway and Ireland in response to the recognition.

Israel’s Reaction

Israel has expressed strong disapproval, considering this move a “gift to Hamas.” The recognition has further strained relations between Israel and the three European nations.

Formal Recognition Date

The formal recognition of the Palestinian state is set for May 28, 2024. This decision marks a significant milestone in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and has implications for regional dynamics.


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