Federal government will protect Hamilton steel amid tariffs, Joly tells Dofasco workers

Since Minister Mélanie Joly assumed responsibility for the infrastructure portfolio last month, she has been in constant communication with Dofasco CEO Ron Bedard to address the impact of the U.S. trade war on Hamilton’s steel industry. Bedard praised Joly’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of workers during meetings and public appearances, highlighting her dedication to the industry and its employees.

The recent escalation of tariffs on steel and aluminum by President Donald Trump prompted urgent discussions between Canadian steel executives and government officials, including Joly. The Canadian Steel Producers Association emphasized the need for swift action to address the challenges facing the industry.

Joly’s visit to the Dofasco plant in Hamilton coincided with Prime Minister Mark Carney’s introduction of legislation aimed at streamlining internal trade processes and expediting infrastructure projects. These initiatives, which include power lines, pipelines, and defense industry development, will rely on Canadian-made steel, much of which is produced in Hamilton.

Describing the Dofasco plant as a “crown jewel” of the manufacturing sector, Joly underscored the significance of preserving and creating jobs in the industry. The federal government is exploring financial assistance measures to prevent layoffs and combat steel dumping by foreign producers selling steel at below-market prices in Canada.

Mayor Andrea Horwath echoed concerns about the impact of tariffs on Hamiltonians and emphasized the need for swift action to address the challenges facing the local steel industry. Joly reiterated the government’s commitment to diplomatic solutions and did not rule out the possibility of increasing retaliatory tariffs on American products.

As efforts continue to support the steel industry in Hamilton and across Canada, Joly emphasized the government’s proactive stance in addressing the challenges posed by the U.S. trade war. Stay tuned for updates on ongoing initiatives to safeguard jobs and promote economic growth in the steel sector.