January 27, 2026
RED FM News Desk
The federal government is moving to create a new auto sector task force aimed at protecting Canadian jobs, with Ontario set to play a central role, Industry Minister Mélanie Joly announced Monday in Toronto.
The group will examine the long-term outlook for vehicle manufacturing in Canada, including investment, employment, and the transition toward electric vehicles. Joly said the task force will also help align federal and provincial efforts as Ottawa prepares to unveil a renewed auto industry strategy.
Speaking alongside Premier Doug Ford and Ontario Economic Development Minister Vic Fedeli, Joly said the initiative will focus on ensuring workers are not left behind as the industry evolves.
The minister acknowledged growing pressure on Canada’s auto sector, particularly as U.S. tariffs continue to threaten domestic manufacturing.
While details of the task force’s structure and timeline remain limited, Joly said governments must take a broad approach when assessing challenges facing auto workers and manufacturers.
She confirmed meetings with Ontario officials and with Unifor national president Lana Payne, whose union represents more than 320,000 private-sector workers across the country.
Joly said supporting Canadian auto production while advancing electrification will be a key priority as governments look to maintain competitiveness and protect jobs across Ontario and beyond.
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