The Globe and Mail
report:
Two of Canada's largest unions are urging the federal government to adopt a Buy Canadian policy similar to the proposal that has been criticized in the United States.
At a joint press conference on Tuesday morning, the Canadian Auto Workers and the United Steelworkers said Ottawa should adopt a procurement policy that ensures the majority of public funds are spent on goods and services made in Canada.
Update: Crampton relies (from the comments section)
You're surprised that Canadian unions would advance this proposal?
Harper's been on a bail-out blowout of late. Hopefully he knocks back this bit of protectionism. Big picture, though, it's probably helpful that he has some pressure on him for this sort of thing, if only because it might help him to get an exemption to the US buy-American rules in exchange for his standing up to the overwhelming public demand etc.
No I'm not surprised. I would expect to see a lot more of this kind of thing in many other countries, including New Zealand, in the near future.
3 comments:
You're surprised that Canadian unions would advance this proposal?
Harper's been on a bail-out blowout of late. Hopefully he knocks back this bit of protectionism. Big picture, though, it's probably helpful that he has some pressure on him for this sort of thing, if only because it might help him to get an exemption to the US buy-American rules in exchange for his standing up to the overwhelming public demand etc.
Obama will be fighting it out with James Buchanan for the honour of worst president of all time if he manages to trigger a trade war and a global depression. It would be good to see him come out immediately and strongly against any Buy American provision in the stimulus bill to avoid any chance of this.
Matt, you are right it would be good to see Obama take a lead in fighting protectionism but I don't like your chances as too much of his support comes from areas of the economy who will be pro-protectionism.
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