NDP Leader Avi Lewis Urges Government Action for Windsor Auto Workers

Avi Lewis, the federal NDP leader, arrived in Windsor on Sunday to tell autoworkers that their families require immediate financial relief. He addressed members at the Unifor Local 444 hall during a tour of southern Ontario that included stops in Hamilton and Brantford. Lewis stated that the uncertainty surrounding Stellantis workers demonstrates the need for government intervention to protect industrial jobs and reduce household expenses.

Lewis noted that the approach of Christmas amplifies the financial pressure on families. He cited ongoing turmoil in the steel industry and production slowdowns at Stellantis plants as evidence of the current strain. The NDP leader emphasized that the party supports the union’s demand for stability in local manufacturing.

Unifor holds a strike mandate of approximately 97 per cent. Lewis identified this mandate as a source of bargaining strength for the union. He said the NDP stands fully behind Unifor and believes the current dispute can be resolved at the bargaining table. The union is seeking specific commitments regarding production levels in Windsor and the future status of the Brampton Assembly Plant.

The NDP leader framed his visit as a defense of the right to strike. He criticized the Carney government for its stance on strikes in federally regulated sectors. Lewis argued that the federal government should support workers as they press the automaker for these commitments.

Lewis stated that the cost-of-living crisis began before the current trade dispute with the United States. He proposed a national rent freeze and public options for groceries, cellphone service, and internet. He suggested that governments should act on these household costs while pursuing longer-term economic projects.

The leader described the current economic situation as an emergency. He said this moment calls for big nation-building projects that support workers immediately. He argued that such projects help families address their bills while providing long-term benefits.

Regarding trade negotiations, Lewis said any agreement with the United States must offer Canadians lasting certainty. He questioned whether a deal could withstand sudden changes in direction from U.S. President Donald Trump. Lewis argued that Canada needs measures it can pursue regardless of the outcome of negotiations, citing the need for both short-term and long-term solutions.

Lewis defended keeping proposed export taxes on energy and critical minerals as negotiating leverage. He said an unpredictable response from Trump should not prevent Canada from considering its options. He noted that any action can provoke a response, and Canada must use the leverage it has without necessarily executing it immediately.

As U.S. midterm elections approach, Lewis cautioned against reaching an agreement that gives Trump a political victory without providing reliable commitments for Canada. He said public money must come with strong obligations when subsidizing corporations to keep jobs in Canada.

Lewis pointed to Stelco in Hamilton to argue that employment guarantees alone do not always prevent layoffs. He reiterated his call for the steelmaker to be brought into public ownership. He clarified that this would mean a government purchase with compensation, rather than seizing the company. He described public ownership as an option for particular circumstances, not every company receiving government support.

Lewis concluded by returning to the Stellantis situation. He said workers need community solidarity and government backing as the union seeks to secure production and jobs at the bargaining table.