Hundreds of Canadian steel and aluminum workers have been laid off following U.S. President Donald Trump’s 25% tariffs, with unions warning of a looming “tidal wave” of job losses as broader economic uncertainty grips the sector. The United Steelworkers (USW), Canada’s largest private-sector union, reports over 200 layoffs so far, with 100,000 members at risk if tariffs escalate on April 2.
Key Developments:
Immediate Impact:
Canada Metal Processing Group cut 140 jobs (mix of permanent, temporary, and early retirements) and froze hiring, citing tariff pressures.
Algoma Steel (Ontario) laid off 27 workers, with CEO Michael Garcia warning of more cuts if Canadian demand falters.
April 2 Deadline: A 30-day reprieve for goods under the USMCA trade pact expires next week, threatening deeper disruptions.
Worker Stories: Scott Noseworthy, a shredder operator in Ontario, described layoffs as “hectic,” leaving families in limbo: “You’re not sure if you’ll have work week to week.”
Economic Ripple Effects:
Sector Uncertainty: Economists warn layoffs are just the “beginning,” with tariffs likely to stifle investment and trade.
Broader Industries: Subcontractors and import-export firms tied to steel/aluminum are already reporting cuts, per labor advocates.
Government Response:
Emergency Measures: Days before a federal election, Prime Minister Mark Carney fast-tracked employment insurance (EI) access and unveiled a multibillion-dollar business aid program.
Criticism: Advocates demand EI overhauls for longer coverage and higher payouts, calling current efforts “inadequate.”
Union Demands:
USW’s Marty Warren urged enhanced skills training and EI reforms, stressing: “Every job lost is a major hit.”
Labor Advocates: Deena Ladd of the Workers’ Action Centre warned, “Uncertainty devastates workers more than businesses.”