Statement from Minister Bains on GM’s decision to close its Oshawa plant

Ottawa, Ontario, November 26, 2018—The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, today made the following statement:

“Our government is deeply disappointed by General Motors’ announcement regarding its operations in Oshawa as part of their global restructuring, affecting their operations and workers here in Canada, but also across the border in the US and around the world. Our thoughts are with the women and men whose jobs will be affected, along with their families and communities. We stand ready to ensure they receive the support and benefits to which they are entitled, with the quality of service they deserve.

“We’ve been steadfast in our support of auto workers and the auto industry since we formed government, investing $389 million in 37 projects. Canada’s auto sector remains strong, with total investments exceeding $5.6 billion over that period, creating and maintaining tens of thousands of good middle-class automotive jobs.

 “As we look to the future, we are developing a plan that will build on Canadian competitive advantages to secure the role of Canada’s auto industry in the development and manufacturing of the car of the future. As outlined in the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, we have also been working with Minister Garneau to develop a Zero-Emission Vehicle Strategy.

“I recognize this will not do very much to alleviate the pain for the people of Oshawa whose lives were turned upside down today by this terrible news. But our government will always stand with our auto workers and do everything we can to support them in difficult times like these.”