Ottawa, August 25, 2026 – The following is a statement from François Laporte, President of Teamsters Canada, on the Canadian tariff response announced today:
“Canada has been dragged into a trade war it never wanted. Faced with that reality, the country has to put real measures in place to protect its workers and its economy.
“That’s why we welcome the counter-tariffs announced today. Ottawa is right to hit back, and Canadian workers expect their government to hold the line.
“But the real measure of success is how many people keep their jobs. That’s the standard we’ll hold today’s announcements to.
“The Work-Sharing Program has saved Teamsters jobs before. We’ll be taking a close look at the changes announced today.
“Extending the EI flexibilities is welcome. But let’s remember the program replaces only 55% of a worker’s income, and plenty of workers are already living paycheque to paycheque. A cheque cut nearly in half doesn’t cover groceries or the mortgage.
“Whatever comes next, no one goes through this alone. Teamsters Canada will fight for every job.”
Teamsters Canada represents 130,000 workers across the country.
-30-
Media contact:
Christopher Monette
Director of Public Affairs, Teamsters Canada
Cell: 514-226-6002
[email protected]
