For immediate release

June 24, 2024

NDP critic for Innovation, Science and Industry, MP Brian Masse (Windsor West) made the following statement:

“New Democrats have been on the front lines fighting for electric vehicle rebates and manufacturing here in Canada for years. And we’ve advocated for a national strategy for the Canadian auto industry. It’s a relief to see this government finally step up and start working toward securing a plan to protect Canadian autoworkers from unfair trade practices. But we can’t ignore that this government has been too slow in standing up for workers. 

In addition, for over three years, we have been calling for electric vehicle rebates for Canadian electric vehicles and those that come from countries that abide by equivalent labour and environmental standards, as well as provide higher rebates for Canadian EVs to match the US. We strongly urge the government to include this measure in their plan. We must ensure that we encourage an auto-sector that upholds labour rights and considers environmental concerns.

This government has constantly been reacting to threats to Canada’s auto-sector, we reiterate our call to have a proactive long-term auto strategy that puts Canadian workers first. Canada’s autoworkers deserve a government that has their back, always.”