Windsor, Ontario -- The federal government is unveiling a major legislative package aimed at helping Canada’s auto sector weather U.S. tariffs and trade disruptions.
The measures were announced during a September 29 press event in Windsor by Minister for Women and Gender Equality, and Secretary of State for Small Business and Tourism Rechie Valdez (pictured).
“These measures are designed to keep paycheques coming, help firms manage cash flow and make the investments needed to stay competitive through the trade disruptions,” she said, according to the Windsor Star.
The measures include extensions to Employment Insurance, a new $450 million reskilling program, and funding through the Strategic Response Fund to help firms adapt and remain competitive.
The EI enhancements will give workers in the automotive sector more time to access benefits and ease eligibility requirements, providing immediate financial relief to those affected by job disruptions.
The reskilling program is designed to train 50,000 workers in skills needed for evolving industry demands, while the Strategic Response Fund will offer $5 billion in assistance to firms impacted by trade challenges.
By combining immediate financial support, workforce training, and strategic business assistance, Ottawa aims to ensure the resilience of Canada’s auto industry amid ongoing trade tensions with the United States.
The federal government is also expanding support for small and medium-sized enterprises, including auto parts suppliers, increasing total funding to $1 billion over three years and providing flexible terms tailored to individual business needs.
