Organigram has laid off around 400 employees due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

That amounts to around 45 per cent of its workforce.

CEO Greg Engel says some administrative, support and other functions were deemed to be non-essential, and voluntary layoffs were offered.

“These are unprecedented and trying times,” says Greg Engel, CEO, Organigram. “Our priority right now is to make sound strategic decisions that are in the best interests of our people and which will contribute to the long-term sustainability of the Company.”

Engel says Organigram has seen reductions in its cultivation, harvest, production and packaging lines.

Lump-sum payments are being paid to affected employees to assist with available government programs.

The company will continue to offer health, dental and short term disability premiums for laid-off employees.

The temporary layoffs were initiated on March 24 and the company says it will continuously monitor the situation.