The Canadian Labour Congress is calling on the federal government to focus on domestic economic concerns rather than hosting the upcoming G7 Summit, citing widespread job losses and economic uncertainty facing workers across the country.
Bea Bruske, president of the Canadian Labour Congress, issued a statement Thursday criticizing the government’s decision to host the international summit while Canadian workers face layoffs in multiple industries and communities.
“From Kitimat to Selkirk, Sault Ste. Marie to Alma, and now Hamilton—workers across Canada are bracing for the next round of layoffs,” Bruske said in the statement. “Entire industries are being hollowed out. Families are living in a constant state of uncertainty, fearing the loss of their homes, their savings, and their livelihoods.”
Trump invitation draws criticism
The labour organization specifically criticized the invitation extended to former U.S. President Donald Trump, describing it as inappropriate given current economic conditions.
“Inviting Donald Trump—whose track record includes open hostility toward workers and unions—is a slap in the face to the thousands of Canadians still waiting to hear whether they’ll have a job next week,” Bruske said.
The CLC also expressed concern about the invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, citing ongoing issues with foreign interference and political violence affecting diaspora communities in Canada.
“In the face of ongoing concerns about foreign interference and political violence targeting diasporic communities in Canada, this decision is not only inappropriate, it’s dangerous,” the statement read.
Economic priorities questioned
The labour congress questioned the government’s spending priorities, contrasting summit costs with the economic challenges facing Canadian workers.
“While millions in taxpayer dollars are being spent on this summit, workers are being told to tighten their belts,” Bruske said. “But we can’t build a just economy by cutting corners for communities while rolling out the red carpet for controversial world leaders.”
The organization called for government investment in job creation, public services, and community support instead of what it termed “empty pageantry.”
The statement comes as various sectors across Canada have announced layoffs and restructuring plans, affecting communities from British Columbia to Quebec. The CLC represents approximately 3.3 million workers through its affiliated unions.
