On Jan. 27, the Society joined the Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL) and approximately 50 labour organizations in calling on the Ford government to establish a joint taskforce to respond to the potential threat of Trump-led tariffs on Canadian exports. The demand proposes that labour unions, industry representatives, community leaders, and policymakers work together to develop solutions to tariffs that threaten the livelihoods of thousands of workers across Ontario.
In a press conference held the morning of Feb. 27, labour leaders criticized the Ford government’s decision to call a February election amid a potential economic crisis, 16 months before a provincial election is required.
The coalition of labour groups voiced the critical need for participation in policy decisions that impact workers, rallying behind the message, “Nothing about us without us.” The Ontario Federation of Labour – the largest federation of workers in Ontario – has not been consulted by the Ford government on its response to potential U.S. tariffs. Unions play an integral role in defending the interests of workers and fighting for fairness and deserve a seat at the table.
The OFL is calling for a collaborative, “all hands on deck” approach in the midst of looming economic uncertainty. The Federation says Ford’s decision to call an election and shut down government could impede the province’s ability to protect jobs and the economy.
