Cement plant announces layoffs

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) - The slowdown in the construction industry has prompted a South Carolina company to eliminate 45 jobs at a cement plant.

Giant Cement Co. of Summerville said Monday it was eliminating the jobs at its plant in Harleyville. The 45 positions represent nearly a quarter of its 170 workers.

The Post and Courier of Charleston reported that the company said it was cutting expenses because of “the current deep recession” in the construction business.

Giant Cement president and chief executive Manuel Llop says the company will try to help the workers losing their jobs. Severance play will be based on the workers’ years of service.