Wawa-news.com Local and Regional News
The Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM) supports the Government of Canada’s decision to stand firm in defence of Canadian industries, businesses, workers, communities, and our national sovereignty following the imposition of the latest U.S. tariffs.
FONOM recognizes the leadership of Prime Minister Mark Carney, Minister Dominic LeBlanc, and Canada’s trade negotiating team. We also recognize the support provided by Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Canada’s premiers as they work with the federal government through a Team Canada approach.
FONOM remains hopeful that Canada and the United States can eventually reach a fair, stable, and mutually beneficial agreement. However, no deal is better than a bad deal that compromises Canadian jobs, industries, sovereignty, or our ability to make decisions in Canada’s best interests.
This is not the time for partisan politics. FONOM calls on all federal political parties, provincial and territorial premiers, and Canadian political leaders to stand together in support of the Government of Canada’s position. A divided Canada would only weaken our negotiating position. Our strength will come from speaking with one clear and united Canadian voice.
Northeastern Ontario’s forestry, mining, manufacturing, steel, transportation, and resource sectors are especially vulnerable to tariffs and prolonged trade uncertainty. These industries support thousands of workers, families, Indigenous communities, municipalities, and businesses across the North. When a major employer reduces production or closes, the effects are felt throughout the entire community.
The federal government has already established tariff relief, worker assistance, financing, and industry-support programs. FONOM urges the Government of Canada to ensure that these measures are delivered quickly and effectively, with particular attention given to forestry and resource-dependent communities. Programs must be accessible to Northern businesses and workers before temporary disruptions become permanent job losses or plant closures.
Canada must also continue expanding its domestic supply chains, developing new international markets and reducing its dependence on any single trading partner. Northern Ontario’s critical minerals, forests, energy, transportation corridors, and skilled workforce will be essential to building a stronger and more self-reliant Canadian economy.
FONOM encourages residents, municipalities, governments, and businesses to Buy Canadian whenever possible. Supporting local businesses, choosing Canadian-made products, using Canadian resources, and investing in Canadian companies are practical ways we can protect Canadian jobs and strengthen our economy.
Federal, provincial, and municipal procurement policies should also give greater priority to Canadian businesses, workers, materials, steel, lumber, and manufactured products. Canadian taxpayer dollars should support Canadian jobs and communities wherever possible.
FONOM will continue working with the federal and provincial governments, NOMA, AMO, industry partners, and our 110 member municipalities to ensure the needs of Northeastern Ontario remain part of the national response.
Our position is clear: stand with the Government of Canada, support our workers and industries, Buy Canadian, and remain united as Canadians.
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