“Challenging Times for the Coal Industry”: Elk Valley Resources Cuts 140 Jobs in BC

What’s Going On at Elk Valley Resources?

Elk Valley Resources (EVR), a subsidiary of Glencore, is eliminating 140 staff positions across its four steelmaking coal mines in Southeast BC, citing “challenging market conditions” and the need to “improve efficiency and reduce costs.”

• The job cuts come in response to volatile global demand, ongoing economic uncertainty, and the recent US move to double steel tariffs to 50%, amid allegations of steel dumping.
• Company communications manager Chris Stannell noted most affected employees have been reassigned to other vacancies, though some did lose their roles, and the company is providing support to those impacted.
• Elk Valley Resources employs more than 5,000 people, claims CBC News.

Community and Regional Impact

Sparwood mayor David Wilks said many workers fly in from Alberta and local towns, and it’s “unfortunate that it’s challenging times for the coal industry” right now.

• Wilks also mentioned Glencore’s recent acquisition of Teck Resources coal operations and expressed hope that this marks the end of layoffs in the area—for now.

Why It Matters

• Local Economy Hit: EVR employs over 5,000 workers in the Elk Valley. Trimming 140 jobs is a major blow socially and economically.
• Trade Policy Fallout: The situation underscores how US tariffs and global steel supply dynamics can ripple back to Canadian mining communities.
• Industry Consolidation: The Teck-Glencore deal may bring stability, but restructuring often follows mergers, with ripple effects for employment.

Next Steps For Elk Valley Resources Employees

If you’ve been affected by the layoffs at Elk Valley Resources, understanding your legal rights is crucial.

Non-unionized employees in Canada’s mining sector are entitled to severance pay based on a variety of factors, including their role, tenure, age, and ability to find similar work.

• SEE ALSO: Layoffs in Canada: Find out which employers are slashing staff

ℹ️ Want a quick overview on severance pay? Watch the video below or check out the full episode in our TV section.

Here’s What You Need to Know

• Compensation: Severance packages, which can be as much as 24 months’ pay, must include salary, bonuses, commissions, and other forms of compensation. Use our firm’s free BC Severance Pay Calculator to better understand your entitlements.
• Deadlines: You generally have up to two years from the date of your termination to review and negotiate severance offers.
• Action steps: Consult an employment lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP to ensure your severance package is fair and aligns with Canadian employment laws.

Lost Your Job? Contact Us

If you’re affected by the latest round of layoffs at Elk Valley Resources, the experienced BC employment law team at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP can help.

Our Vancouver employment lawyers have helped tens of thousands of non-unionized individuals resolve their workplace issues.

Call us today at 1-855-821-5900 or request a consultation online.

Disclaimer: The materials above are provided as general information about the rights of non-unionized employees in Canada. It is NOT specific to any one company and should NOT be read as suggesting any improper conduct on the part of any specific employer, or a relationship between Samfiru Tumarkin LLP and a specific employer.