Press release
Threat of U.S. tariffs: A strong, direct, and united response is needed

Montreal, February 4th, 2025. – The Quebec Federation of Labour (QFL) affirms that a robust and united national response, involving all key players in our economy, must be implemented to respond to the threats of tariffs from U.S. President Donald Trump. The situation remains precarious despite the thirty-day reprieve announced this week.

“The intimidation and threats from the president are causing enormous stress for hundreds of thousands of workers in Quebec and across Canada. Unions, employers, and governments must all set aside partisan disputes and work together to prepare a strong, direct, and united response. I’ve had several meetings over the past few weeks with key players at both federal and provincial levels, and what has emerged from these discussions is positive. But we must not fool ourselves: this collaboration must continue because no one knows what might happen,” says QFL President Magali Picard.

For the QFL, these are unpredictable and unsettling times: less than two weeks after his swearing-in, the U.S. president has already shaken many certainties. What was once a given can no longer be assumed, and we must seriously consider our future.

“This is a unique and historic crisis. Few would have thought we would have to deal with a trade war with our neighbors to the south, but unfortunately, that is what is happening. Perhaps we should start questioning our economic model and our collective interests. We have all the necessary tools to build a more resilient and stronger economy, less susceptible to the whims and arbitrary decisions of a single partner. The ongoing dialogue could serve as a foundation for further reflection and preparation for the future,” concludes Magali Picard.

The QFL, Quebec’s largest central labour body, represents over 600,000 workers.

Source: FTQ

For further information, contact David Francke-Robitaille, 514 961-4489, dfrancke@ftq.qc.ca