Premier Doug Ford delivers remarks in Hamilton on August 20, 2025. Screenshot courtesy Premier of Ontario/YouTube.Premier Doug Ford delivers remarks in Hamilton on August 20, 2025. Screenshot courtesy Premier of Ontario/YouTube.
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Premier announces $70M investment to protect workers affected by US tariffs

Ontario Premier Doug Ford pulled no punches while announcing support for workers who may find themselves in limbo in the face of tariffs.

In front of a crowd of steelworkers on Wednesday morning in Hamilton, Ford announced that the province will invest $70-million into training and employment. About $20-million of that money will go toward the creation of Protect Ontario Workers Employment Response (POWER) Centres.

The centres, which will enhance existing action centres run by labour unions and supported by Queens Park, will offer resources for workers in industries affected by tariffs imposed by the U.S. government.

"These centres will provide immediate access to training and employment services, and we're doing this proactively, so that these centres are ready to go when workers need them," said Ford.

The POWER Centres will, for the first time, be designed to operate within 24 hours of any layoff.

The premier got fiery during his remarks as he discussed how tariffs have affected workers on both sides of the border.

"No one in a million years would think that a guy named President [Donald] Trump would come along and start an economic war with his friend and closest ally, not to mention with the rest of the world," said Ford. "The rest of the world goes back and kisses his behind all the time...We're going to fight like we've never fought before."

Ontario Labour Minister David Piccini said the best way for Ontario workers to become self-sufficient is for all parties to get involved.

"This is a moment that has united us more than ever before, where you see leaders of all stripes, from all walks of life, working together, ready to nation-build," said Piccini. "To nation build, you need a workforce, and we've got the best workers right here in Ontario."

The other $50-million will be invested in the Better Jobs Ontario (BJO) initiative, which expands access to training for in-demand jobs. It helps job seekers, particularly younger workers and those on social assistance, secure up to $35,000 for costs such as tuition, transportation, and childcare.

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