Harper puts auto jobs at risk

September 20, 2015

WINDSOR, ON – During last Thursday’s Globe and Mail Leader’s Debate, Stephen Harper raised serious questions about his unwillingness to protect vital auto sector jobs in Southern Ontario.

“The Conservative Leader made waves Thursday when he signalled that he’s determined to be part of a Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement even over the objections of the auto sector, whose members fear it will lead to a flood of foreign parts, produced by cheaper labour, killing their industry. ‘The auto sector has concerns, as do others… I’m not suggesting they will necessarily like everything that is in [the agreement],’ Mr. Harper said.” (Globe and Mail, September 19, 2015)

“Stephen Harper can’t be trusted. He let slip in last Thursday’s debate that he’s given up trying to protect the auto industry while negotiating the Trans-Pacific Partnership,” said Liberal candidate for Windsor-Tecumseh, Frank Schiller. “Stephen Harper and the Conservatives have failed our manufacturing and auto sectors. Windsor-Tecumseh deserves better. I will fight to deliver better agreements, jobs, and opportunities. ”

 “Canada’s auto industry directly and indirectly employs 400,000 Canadians, most of them right here in Southern Ontario. It is still recovering from Harper’s first recession,” said Liberal candidate for Windsor West, David Sundin. “Liberals understand that trade helps our economy and the middle class, but we can’t trust Harper to support the auto sector or Southern Ontario jobs. He should be at the table negotiating a better deal, instead of just giving up and backing down.”