OTTAWA - NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh has issued a clarion call for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to recall Parliament and take immediate action on behalf of Canadian workers as the threat of U.S. tariffs looms. Speaking from Sault Ste. Marie, Singh expressed his concerns about President Donald Trump's impending decision to impose 25 percent tariffs on Canadian goods, asserting the urgent need for protective measures for affected workers and industries.
Singh's remarks came during a press conference on January 30, where he underscored his belief, saying, "We will be voting down the government at the end of March." He cautioned against waiting two months to support workers who could bear the brunt of the economic fallout. Singh was quoted stating, "Let's put in place supports for workers before the worst happens," emphasizing the need for the government to act swiftly as they prepare for eventual elections this spring.
His appeal for early action echoes broader sentiments echoed by other opposition leaders, including Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, who have also urged for Parliament to reconvene sooner than the planned date of March 24.
At the heart of Singh's demands is the reality of Trump's threat, which he characterized as "starting a war" against Canada, and he asserted the country's need to be ready to "fight back" to protect its jobs. "The trade war is going to hurt us either way but we can't let workers bear the brunt," Singh added during his speech, demonstrating the potential for dramatic impacts on Canadian jobs if tariffs were to be enacted. The looming tariffs could significantly interrupt business as many Canadian companies, including those reliant on exports, are closely watching the developments.
Singh has also called for the introduction of retaliatory tariffs, reinforcing the NDP's commitment to support Canadian industries and strengthen domestic production. He said, "We need to make sure we're favouring Canadian companies," which reflects his intent to fortify local businesses against foreign competition exacerbated by U.S. trade policy.
While acknowledging the gravity of the situation, government sources have indicated there's no immediate plan to recall Parliament, with one source remarking, "We will respond appropriately," amid uncertainties about how exactly Trump's tariffs would manifest.
Trump himself has maintained his stance on the tariffs, stating they will go forward as scheduled. His commentary includes the possibility of exempting certain sectors, including whether Canadian oil might be affected, which could dramatically shift the economic forecasts related to the impending tariffs. Per federal data, if the tariffs hit oil, American gas prices could surge, impacting consumers directly.
Singh's call to action has gained traction among labor leaders. Union representatives from the United Steelworkers joined Singh emphasizing the importance of swift support for workers impacted by the tariffs. Marty Warren, the national director of the United Steelworkers, stated, "We're here today because workers... are under attack," urging immediate governmental support to prevent widespread job losses.
Singh intends to leverage the situation for political gain, asserting the need for immediate action from the government and questioning their commitment to worker welfare. He rebuffed the Liberal government’s reassurances, expressing skepticism about their ability to follow through on promises to protect Canadian jobs. He remarked, "If you're serious about supporting these workers, let's call Parliament back and get it done. But it does not seem to me they’re serious. I want these workers to get support. So I'm calling their bluff."
Beyond immediate responses, Singh is pushing for long-term changes, such as revising federal procurement rules to support Canadian manufacturing and shifting strategic focus from U.S. trade—an approach he asserts would mitigate future vulnerabilities.
With the wind of urgency blowing through the political corridors, Singh's predictions for spring elections loom large. He remains firm about the impending vote down against the government as soon as Parliament returns, firmly believing the upcoming period is pivotal for both Canadian workers and broader economic stability.
For now, observers await Trudeau's government response as Singh continues to rally support, positioning the NDP as the party ready to challenge the existing government and advocate strongly for workers' needs. Across the country, workers remain watchful, aware their livelihoods may hang on decisions made within the next few weeks. The shifting political winds surrounding the potential tariffs will significantly shape the economic narrative, determining if immediate and adequate responses can avert the impending crisis.