In early June, over 60 delegates from USW steel industry locals gathered in Ottawa for the Stand Up for Steel Conference. This event brought together Steelworkers from across the country to share the issues they face in their workplaces and to advocate for policies that protect Canadian steel jobs, defend the domestic industry and strengthen communities reliant on steel production.
Throughout the day, delegates addressed the urgent challenges facing Canada’s steel sector. They discussed the rise of low-cost steel imports from foreign producers, particularly from countries where workers face poor labour conditions, which unfairly undercuts Canadian production. Delegates emphasized the need for decisive action on trade enforcement and stronger border tariffs to prevent the flood of unfairly priced imports that jeopardize Canadian jobs and weaken local economies.
The next day, delegates met with Canadian lawmakers to present their case for policies that will ensure a strong and sustainable steel industry within Canada. High on the agenda were calls for policies that prioritize domestically produced steel for infrastructure projects. Delegates also urged legislators to implement carbon adjustment at borders and to expand the Canada Border Services Agency’s capacity to identify unfair steel trade.
USW National Director Marty Warren praised the delegates for sharing their stories and making clear the value of steel production to Canadian communities. “When we stand up for steel, we’re standing up for the people and the future of the Canadian steel industry,” Warren stated. “Our voices reinforce our union’s dedication to fair trade and to protecting good union jobs for generations to come.”
The Stand Up for Steel Conference highlighted the USW’s commitment to advocating for a resilient, sustainable and fair steel industry across Canada.
Find out more: usw.ca/standupforsteel
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