PotashCorp had 1,782 union members in its workforce in 2006, representing 37 percent of its regular employees.

The company has entered into eight collective bargaining agreements with labor organizations representing employees.

Over half of all union members work in Canada (57 percent), followed by the US (38 percent) and Brazil (5 percent).

Notification Provisions

In Canada, collective bargaining agreements and provincial labor legislation require one to eight weeks' minimum notice for layoffs, usually depending on the employee's length of employment. In the United States, the notice period depends on the circumstances but ranges from two to eight weeks. In Brazil, the minimum notification period is four weeks.

Under specific circumstances involving a significant change in the employer's operation of the business, "technological change" legislation and collective agreement language may require more extensive notice periods and negotiation between the parties.

Prior to temporary layoffs, PotashCorp advises employees and/or their elected representatives. However, terms and conditions for layoffs remain as previously negotiated and/or as defined by company policy.