More than 150 jobs have been cut at Lac-Mégantic

One of the oldest manufacturing companies in Lac-Mégantic is closing its doors, affecting 180 workers.

The members of the Masonite Factory Syndicate, which has been closed since last February, learned the news from their employer on Tuesday morning, when a negotiating meeting was scheduled to be held in the presence of Muwafaq.

“Seeing 180 jobs cut in a small community of about 6,000 people is still quite a blow. Especially since the majority are people of a certain age who plan to continue into their retirement,” said Bernard Cournoyer, trade union advisor at the Center for Democratic Unionism.

“The news is shocking, especially since three weeks ago, during the last session, we felt a desire on the part of the two parties to settle and reach a long-term agreement,” said union president Remy Grenier.

The manufacturer of interior wood doors on Villeneuve Street operated as Premdor until it was purchased by Masonite International Corporation in 2013.

“Last year we worked a lot of overtime and we were paid overtime because we had a lot of work to do and now we are closed. I find it really strange,” said one worker, baffled by the ad.

The company has been around for several decades, with employees noting that their grandparents actually worked there.

The syndicate wonders about the real reasons for the closure. This is the third Quebec plant that Masonite has closed in five years.

At the corporate headquarters, which is located in Tampa Bay, Florida, the company explained its decision.

“I can confirm that Masonite has permanently ceased operations at its Lac-Mégantic plant, effective June 27, 2023,” said a Masonite spokesperson. The company has a long-term strategy of optimizing our production network to maximize service levels and operational efficiencies. Masonite is committed to maintaining a strong operational presence in Canada.”