QUEEN’S PARK — Marit Stiles, Leader of the Official Opposition Ontario NDP, has written to Premier Doug Ford calling for urgent action to safeguard Ontario from the impacts of American tariffs.
“Ontario is looking for its leaders to step up for them,” said Stiles. “To protect their livelihoods and their families. We must stand strong and united from coast to coast to coast.
“Today, I’ve asked Doug Ford to immediately recall the legislature so that we can pass an emergency relief bill to support Ontario workers in tariff-exposed sectors and businesses. It is our duty as elected officials to immediately get to work in the fight against Donald Trump's inexcusable and dangerous tariffs.”
Stiles and the NDP are calling on the Ford government to:
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Review all government contracts, cancel any with U.S. businesses, stop any new ones, and identify Canadian providers where possible.
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Prohibit any new AI data centre agreements that benefit U.S. companies.
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Prioritize made-in-Ontario or made-in-Canada vehicles for the province’s fleet.
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Update the language in Ontario’s procurement laws to strengthen Buy Ontario First language and protect Ontario industries, including steel and auto.
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Promote Ontario’s forestry industry by directing provincial agencies to prioritize Ontario forest products.
“These times call for a strong and decisive response,” added Stiles. “Doug Ford and his government must take these steps to defend Ontario in the face of Donald Trump’s belligerent attacks on our workers and our economy.”