On Prime Minister Mark Carney’s first day in office, Unifor called on him to urgently address U.S. trade threats and protect Canadian jobs through strong policy responses.
“Prime Minister Carney, as you take on this role, know that Unifor members, indeed all workers, have high expectations of you,” said Lana Payne, national president of Unifor. “You’re stepping into a new job while many, many others are at risk. We need leadership that is thoughtful, strategic and bold.”
Unifor’s call comes amid renewed tariff threats from former U.S. President Donald Trump, raising fears about job losses and economic instability in Canada.
The union has outlined several immediate actions it believes the government must undertake. These include implementing robust trade and industrial policies to reduce Canada’s reliance on the U.S., expanding employment insurance and workplace supports to mitigate potential job losses, and maintaining public ownership of healthcare.
Unifor also emphasized the importance of continuing consultations through the Prime Minister’s Council on Canada-U.S. relations and encouraged the expansion of the $10-a-day child care initiative and stronger measures to address intimate partner violence.
“It’s not enough to go tit for tat with Trump,” said Payne. “We need to make big moves, today, that will decrease Canada’s reliance on the United States and protect our industries and public services for years to come.”
Unifor represents approximately 320,000 private sector workers across Canada.
