Labour market ministers from across Canada are preparing for potential U.S. tariffs that could impact jobs and businesses, agreeing to a coordinated response to mitigate economic disruption.
The Forum of Labour Market Ministers (FLMM) met virtually on Feb. 25 to discuss workforce challenges that could arise from trade measures imposed by the United States. The meeting followed previous discussions in January, where ministers explored ways to strengthen Canada’s labour market amid economic uncertainty.
Federal, provincial, and territorial officials agreed on the need for a unified approach to protect jobs and maintain economic stability. They also emphasized the importance of supporting labour mobility within Canada and ensuring workforce resilience through employment programs and training initiatives.
Employment Minister Steven MacKinnon underscored the role of federal programs such as the Employment Insurance (EI) Work-Sharing Program, which provides income support to workers with reduced hours. He also pointed to employment assistance and reskilling programs funded through Labour Market Development Agreements (LMDAs) as critical tools for maintaining workforce stability.
Provincial and territorial ministers stressed that their governments are best positioned to address regional workforce needs. They urged the federal government to increase funding for LMDAs, noting that these programs helped mitigate job losses in past tariff disputes affecting the forestry, steel, and aluminum sectors between 2017 and 2021.
“Any threat to Canadian jobs requires a calculated and coordinated response,” MacKinnon said. “Canada’s labour market ministers stand at the ready to protect Canadian workers, sectors, and prosperity against a possible tariff threat.”
Ministers also committed to reviewing additional measures to support businesses and workers during economic disruption. They highlighted the importance of long-term strategies to remove barriers to labour mobility and enhance Canada’s productivity and competitiveness.
Ontario did not participate in the communiqué due to the province’s ongoing election period.
The FLMM, established in 1983, serves as an intergovernmental forum for strengthening cooperation on labour market priorities.
