Industry and Technology

The Industry and Technology Committee met to discuss the impact of changes to Section 232 tariffs on Canadian industries. Witnesses from various organizations, including the Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium (EMC), the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC), and Preferred CNC Inc., shared their experiences and concerns. Jason Bates from EMC highlighted the struggles of Great Lakes Copper and Arctic Snowplows due to the tariffs, while Vincent Caron from the OCC emphasized the urgent need for practical measures to support Ontario businesses. Marc Lecours, President of Preferred CNC Inc., warned about the potentially crippling effects of the tariffs on the Windsor mould-making sector. Committee members questioned the witnesses about the specific challenges they face and potential solutions. Kathy Borrelli focused on the impact on Windsor businesses, while Peter Fragiskatos inquired about policy actions that could provide maximum impact. Gabriel Ste-Marie explored the possibility of U.S. trade partners pressuring their government, and Raquel Dancho emphasized the dire consequences of the tariff changes for Canadian jobs and economic activity. John-Paul Danko highlighted the impact on Hamilton, and Jason Groleau discussed the impact on Quebec businesses. Witnesses suggested measures such as emergency payments, tariff relief, enhanced tax credits, and government procurement preferences. There was a consensus that the tariffs are harming both Canadian and U.S. businesses and that a negotiated solution is urgently needed. A motion was introduced calling on the Prime Minister to secure an agreement with the United States to end the tariffs and protect Canadian jobs. The committee agreed to postpone debate on the motion until after hearing from additional witnesses.

The Industry and Technology Committee met to discuss the impact of U.S. tariffs on Canada's steel, manufacturing and mining sectors. Witnesses from various industry associations shared their concerns about the tariffs, especially the recent changes to Section 232, which they say unfairly tax Canadian manufacturing and create instability. They emphasized the deep integration of Canadian and U.S. supply chains and the potential for job losses if the tariffs continue. They also discussed the importance of domestic procurement policies and diversifying trade relationships. Eric Anderson from the Saskatchewan Industrial and Mining Suppliers Association (SIMSA) highlighted Saskatchewan's role in supplying critical minerals and the potential impact of tariffs on the mining sector. Keanin Loomis from the Canadian Institute of Steel Construction (CISC) recommended doubling the surtax on steel from non-FTA countries and applying "buy Canadian" policies to all taxpayer-funded projects. Ryan Donally from the Windsor Essex Chamber of Commerce stressed the immediate industrial capacity issues and the potential for production and jobs to move out of Canada. Michael Hicks from the Canadian Association of Moldmakers echoed these concerns, emphasizing the need for Prime Minister Carney to visit Windsor and see the impact firsthand. Alison Cretney from Energy Futures Lab spoke about the structural vulnerability that makes Canada susceptible to these tariffs and suggested building resilient domestic value chains for critical minerals and metals. Greg Moffatt from the Chemistry Industry Association of Canada discussed the essential role of chemistry in metallurgical processing and the risks posed by the tariffs. Committee members discussed potential solutions, including short-term cash-flow relief, reinstating a temporary remission framework, and negotiating a comprehensive trade deal with the U.S. They also explored ways to support diversification and strengthen domestic industries. The committee agreed that the situation is urgent and requires immediate action to protect Canadian jobs and industries. They emphasized the need for a long-term trade agreement with the U.S. and for policies that support domestic manufacturing and innovation. The committee will continue its study on Monday with another meeting to further explore these issues and potential solutions.

The Industry and Technology Committee met to discuss the economic impact of U.S. tariffs on Canada's manufacturing sector. Witnesses from mold-making and steel fabrication companies shared how the tariffs are hurting their businesses. They said the tariffs are making it harder to compete with U.S. companies and could lead to job losses and companies moving to the United States or Mexico. Isabelle Liard, President of Liard Industries, explained that a 25% tariff on exports to the U.S. is a major problem for her company. Jonathon Azzopardi, CEO of Laval Tool & Mould, said the tariffs are a long-term threat to Canada's manufacturing industry. Nicole Vlanich, Executive Director of the Canadian Association of Moldmakers, emphasized that the tariffs penalize Canadian labor and innovation. Witnesses asked the government to negotiate with the U.S. to remove the tariffs. They also asked for support programs to help them keep their workers and improve their productivity. Some suggested wage subsidies or access to loans. Many felt the uncertainty around the tariffs was as damaging as the tariffs themselves. Additional witnesses including Catherine Blanchet from PREXOR, Chris Vander Park and Diane Ricci Woodiwiss from Cavalier Tool, and Cyrus Jebely from Cap-Thin Molds, echoed the concerns about the tariffs' impact and the need for government action. They emphasized the importance of a long-term trade agreement with the U.S. and the need for stability and clarity in trade rules. Committee members discussed potential solutions and support measures. They recognized the urgency of the situation and the need to find ways to help Canadian manufacturers compete.

The Industry and Technology Committee met to discuss electric vehicles (EVs) and related issues. Witnesses from Electric Autonomy Canada, The Transition Accelerator, and the Global Intelligence Knowledge Network shared their expertise. The discussion covered topics like the adoption of EVs in Canada, the role of government in supporting EV infrastructure, and potential national security risks associated with Chinese-manufactured EVs. Ilana Weitzman from Electric Autonomy Canada emphasized the economic benefits of EVs, highlighting savings on fuel and maintenance. She suggested policies like clean fuel regulation credits and tax benefits for electric company cars. Moe Kabbara from The Transition Accelerator spoke about the global trend toward EVs and the opportunity for Canada to become a leader in the EV supply chain. He recommended investment tax credits for charging infrastructure and careful calibration of GHG standards. Neil Bisson, a retired intelligence officer, raised concerns about the national security risks of importing Chinese EVs. He argued that these vehicles could be used for espionage and data collection by the Chinese government. Committee members questioned the witnesses on these issues, exploring potential solutions and the role of government in mitigating risks. The committee agreed to prioritize a new study on tariffs impacting the Canadian mould-making industry, scheduling three meetings to examine the economic and supply chain effects and assess potential policy responses. The study will begin on April 20, superseding previously scheduled meetings.

The Industry and Technology Committee met to discuss artificial intelligence (AI) in Canada's strategic industries. The committee heard from representatives from the Vector Institute, Next Generation Manufacturing Canada (NGen), Bell Canada, Cohere, and TELUS. Speakers discussed Canada's strengths in AI research but noted that the country lags in AI adoption and deployment due to trust issues and slow infrastructure development. They emphasized the importance of data sovereignty, operational control over AI infrastructure, and clear regulations to foster trust and innovation. They also discussed the need for a national AI strategy, government leadership in AI adoption, and support for Canadian AI companies.

The Industry and Technology Committee met to discuss electric vehicles (EVs) and related trade. The committee heard from witnesses about the opportunities and risks associated with importing Chinese EVs into Canada. Concerns were raised about forced labor in Chinese supply chains, data security risks with Chinese software in EVs, and the potential impact on the Canadian auto industry. Margaret McCuaig-Johnston, a senior fellow from the University of Ottawa, expressed concerns about forced labor in the production of Chinese EVs and the potential for data collection through Chinese software. She suggested guardrails, like stripping out Chinese software and ensuring supply chain transparency. Julian Karaguesian, a visiting lecturer from McGill University, argued that importing Chinese EVs is a step towards diversifying trade and that Canada should not fear competition from China. He emphasized the importance of global trade for Canada's long-term prosperity. Later, Benjamin Taylor, CEO of Beachman Motor Company Ltd, discussed his experience as a Canadian EV manufacturer, highlighting the challenges of competing with lower-cost production in China. Nicole Vlanich, executive director of the Canadian Association of Moldmakers, emphasized the importance of domestic production for the mold-making industry and raised concerns about the end-of-life management of imported EVs. A motion was introduced to condemn forced labor practices in China, which received unanimous support after some debate. An amendment to condemn a specific committee member's comments was defeated. The meeting ended with unresolved discussions and a commitment to continue the study, though the second panel of witnesses were not asked any questions.

The Canadian parliamentary committee on Industry and Technology met to discuss the federal government's policies related to artificial intelligence (AI). The committee heard from several experts in the field, including professors Michael Geist, Colin Bennett, and Yoshua Bengio, who shared their insights and recommendations. The discussion covered a range of topics, including the need for updated privacy laws, AI transparency, and the potential risks and benefits of AI development. Michael Geist emphasized the importance of balancing innovation with safeguards against potential risks, suggesting that current proposals risk doing more harm than good. He recommended prioritizing modernized privacy laws and an AI transparency act. Colin Bennett echoed Geist's concerns about data sovereignty and the need for an overarching statutory framework for AI. He also highlighted the importance of privacy protection policies and the need for effective redress mechanisms for individuals affected by automated decisions. Yoshua Bengio warned about the potential risks of unsafe AI development, including the displacement of jobs and the use of AI for malicious purposes. He stressed the need for international cooperation and the development of safe and trustworthy AI. Committee members raised questions about the potential impact of AI on employment, national security, and the digital divide. The witnesses provided recommendations on how the government can better prepare for the challenges and opportunities presented by AI. Later in the meeting, the committee heard from Carys Craig, Wendy Cukier, and Ali Dehghantanha. Craig spoke about copyright law and AI, cautioning against expanding copyright protections as part of an AI regulatory package. Cukier discussed the importance of AI adoption by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and the need to address bias in AI systems. Dehghantanha focused on the need for continuous AI risk monitoring and post-deployment assurance. The committee members discussed the need for a balanced approach to AI regulation that promotes innovation while mitigating risks. They also explored ways to support SMEs in adopting AI and to ensure that AI systems are developed and used responsibly and ethically. The committee agreed to continue its study of AI policies and to consider the recommendations provided by the witnesses.

The Industry and Technology Committee met to discuss policies related to electric vehicles (EVs) in Canada. Witnesses from the Canadian Automobile Dealers Association (CADA), Clean Energy Canada, and Electric Mobility Canada shared their perspectives. CADA expressed support for the government's new auto strategy but urged for the immediate removal of the EVAS regulation and provincial EV mandates, arguing they create uncertainty and trade barriers. Clean Energy Canada highlighted the global shift towards EVs and emphasized the need for strong tailpipe standards and investments in charging infrastructure to boost the domestic EV market. Electric Mobility Canada supported the auto strategy, emphasizing the importance of market predictability and collaboration with other countries to develop the EV industry.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Industry and Technology met to begin a new study on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on Canada. The committee heard from experts in AI safety, computer science, and innovation. Witnesses discussed both the potential benefits and significant risks of AI, including job displacement and national security threats. They emphasized the need for Canada to develop its own AI capabilities and infrastructure to maintain economic and technological sovereignty. Wyatt Tessari L'Allié, from AI Governance and Safety Canada, warned about recent advancements in AI agents, which can act independently and pose new security risks. He suggested a moratorium on the latest AI agents and called for better monitoring and defense strategies. Professor David Duvenaud from the University of Toronto raised concerns about AI potentially making human workers obsolete, leading to economic and social challenges. He stressed the need for global coordination to address these issues. Dugan O'Neil, from Simon Fraser University, highlighted the importance of investing in Canadian AI research and infrastructure to ensure that Canada remains competitive. He also mentioned the convergence of AI and quantum technologies as a unique opportunity for Canada. Julien Billot, CEO of Scale AI, spoke about the need for Canada to build a sovereign AI value chain to secure its technological and economic independence. Committee members discussed potential legislation and the need for a national conversation on AI. Some members suggested establishing a permanent task force on AI, possibly chaired by the Prime Minister, to coordinate efforts across various government departments. The committee also explored how to balance innovation with responsible AI development and regulation. The committee will meet again to continue the study.

The Industry and Technology Committee met to discuss the Budget 2025 Implementation Act. Minister of Industry Mélanie Joly explained how the proposed law aims to boost Canada's industrial strategy by supporting key sectors like clean technology, advanced manufacturing, and critical minerals. She emphasized the need for quick action to provide businesses with the confidence and predictability they need to invest in Canada. She also announced a new working group with Ontario to strengthen the auto industry. During the meeting, committee members questioned the Minister about various aspects of the proposed law. Raquel Dancho raised concerns about allowing taxpayer-funded subsidies for electric vehicles (EVs) made in the United States, arguing it's unethical given the challenges facing the Canadian auto sector. Minister Joly defended the strategy, stating it supports auto production in Canada and helps the industry transition to electrification. She said that the subsidies are available for American-made EVs because there are American automakers in Canada and the government wants to keep their footprint in Canada. Dominique O'Rourke highlighted the importance of passing the budget quickly to provide businesses with critical supports, particularly in agribusiness, manufacturing, and trades training. Gabriel Ste-Marie inquired about data portability and greenwashing regulations within the proposed law. Kyle Seeback shared concerns from unemployed auto workers about subsidizing American EVs. Parm Bains discussed how the proposed law would strengthen Canada's food sovereignty and support the steel sector. Michael Guglielmin questioned a provision that would allow the government to exempt individuals or organizations from federal laws. Michael Ma asked how the auto strategy would define the Canadian auto industry in the coming years. Raquel Dancho proposed a motion to study the federal government's EV policies, including those related to Chinese EVs. After some discussion and amendments, the committee agreed to undertake the study, inviting the Minister of Industry to testify for at least two hours. The study will proceed after the completion of reports on Canada's productivity gaps and the Defence Industrial Strategy, and will run at the same time as the study on AI adoption in strategic industrial sectors.

The Industry and Technology Committee met to discuss parts of the proposed law to implement the 2025 budget, focusing on how it affects privacy. The main topic was data mobility, which would allow people to easily share their personal information between companies. The committee wanted to understand how this new law would impact Canadians' privacy. Philippe Dufresne, Canada's Privacy Commissioner, spoke about the importance of protecting personal data. He supports the idea of data mobility but wants to make sure there are strong rules to protect people's information. He also mentioned the need to update Canada's privacy laws to deal with new issues like deepfakes and data breaches. Dufresne emphasized that his office should be consulted when the government makes regulations about data mobility. Committee members asked Dufresne about transparency, the burden on small businesses, and how to handle data breaches. Dufresne said that while he is optimistic that the government will consult with his office on regulations, he currently lacks the power to issue fines, which he believes is a necessary tool. He also highlighted the importance of educating Canadians about data protection and ensuring strong enforcement of privacy laws. The committee did not make any decisions during this meeting, but it gathered information to help shape future recommendations.

The Industry and Technology Committee met to discuss the situation with Stellantis, a car company, and its assembly plant in Brampton, Ontario. The main focus was on whether Stellantis was keeping its promises to Canadian workers and the government, especially after announcing changes to production plans. The meeting featured Minister of Finance François-Philippe Champagne, who defended the government's agreements with Stellantis and emphasized the importance of the automotive industry to Canada. He stated that the government is disappointed by Stellantis's actions and is working to hold them accountable. During the meeting, committee members questioned Minister Champagne about the details of the contracts with Stellantis, particularly regarding job guarantees and the potential for the company to reduce its workforce. Some members expressed concern that the contracts allowed Stellantis to cut jobs while still receiving government support. Minister Champagne argued that the contracts should be viewed as a whole, including another agreement with NextStar, and that they provide a floor for job numbers over a 12-year period. He also clarified that the government has disbursed $40 million to Stellantis, far less than some reported figures. Other topics discussed included support for artificial intelligence development, the aerospace industry, and homelessness programs. A member from the Bloc Québécois raised concerns about a proposed law that could allow the government to bypass existing laws in the name of innovation. Minister Champagne responded that this is a common practice in other G7 countries to encourage innovation in specific industries. The committee agreed to share international examples of this practice with the members. Overall, the meeting was at times tense, with disagreements between committee members and the Minister regarding the interpretation of the Stellantis contracts. The committee members requested more information on the contracts and the government's plans to ensure Stellantis meets its commitments. The meeting ended with well wishes for the holiday season.

The Industry and Technology Committee met to discuss recent job losses in the Canadian steel industry, specifically focusing on Algoma Steel. A Conservative member, Ms. Dancho, introduced a motion to condemn the government's handling of the situation, including a $400 million loan to Algoma Steel approved shortly before 1,000 layoffs were announced. The motion also called for key figures like the Industry Minister, Finance Minister, and the CEO of Algoma Steel to testify before the committee. Committee members debated the motion, with Conservatives arguing that the government is handing out money without securing job guarantees, leading to worker layoffs. They emphasized the need for transparency and accountability. Liberal members defended the government's actions, stating that the investments were helping to save jobs and transition the steel industry to greener manufacturing. They also pointed to external factors, like trade disputes with the United States, as contributing to the problem and highlighted budget measures aimed at supporting affected workers. Mr. Erskine-Smith, a Liberal member, suggested that the motion was premature in reporting to the House before conducting a thorough study. Mr. Ste-Marie from the Bloc Québécois supported the motion and expressed solidarity with the steelworkers. Ultimately, Mr. Ste-Marie moved to adjourn the meeting, which passed with a vote of 5 to 4, ending the discussion without a resolution on the initial motion.