RECAP: Carney, Poilievre vow to fight for workers affected by upcoming layoffs at GM assembly plant in Ontario
‘GM wants to be here long-term,’ says Ingersoll mayor
General Motors recently announced a temporary shutdown of its CAMI Assembly plant located in Ingersoll, Ontario, resulting in anticipated layoffs for hundreds of employees. The decision, according to GM, is not a direct result of U.S. tariffs but is instead attributed to a decrease in market demand and high inventory levels of the BrightDrop electric vehicle. In response to this development, Mayor Brian Petrie of Ingersoll shared his thoughts on the matter.
The temporary closure of the GM plant in Ingersoll, situated approximately 40 kilometres east of London, Ontario, is primarily due to a decrease in demand for the electric delivery trucks manufactured at the facility, as explained by Mayor Brian Petrie. Petrie revealed that General Motors has reassured him of their efforts to explore alternative products for the plant’s operations.
Expressing his optimism, Petrie stated, “That is what I’ve heard and I welcome that. I know GM wants to be here long-term.” With a longstanding presence in the community since 1986, Petrie emphasized the importance of GM’s continued commitment to the region. While the current shutdown may not be directly linked to automotive sector tariffs, Petrie acknowledged the ongoing uncertainty surrounding trade policies.
Recognizing the impact of the plant closure on the local community, Petrie acknowledged the proactive measures taken by Unifor, the union representing plant workers, in establishing an action center to support affected employees. Assuring that the laid-off workers will receive assistance, Petrie also highlighted his efforts to engage with the Ontario government, which has previously invested in the GM plant.
