Layoffs of trades people at Mount Polley Mine began Friday said United Steelworkers Union Local 1425 president Paul French.
"We haven't got a number but they are happening," French told the Tribune. "They are laying off trades that would normally work in the mill. But they are keeping people on for the clean-up and rebuilding of the site from the breach."
The union had anticipated the layoffs and was informed Thursday they would be happening, French said.
On Aug. 4, 2014, the tailings impoundment facility breached, spilling 25 million cubic metres of water and tailings into nearby Polley Lake, Hazeltine Creek and Quesnel Lake.