It’s time to put workers at the center of the tariff and trade discussions

Published Feb 11, 2025 at 4:23 PM EST on Newsweek.com

The 600,000-member International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Union, for decades the largest aerospace and defense labor union in the U.S. and Canada, is relieved that President Donald Trump has paused his tariff war with Canada.

The IAM is all for the strategic use of tariffs to rebuild domestic manufacturing, enforce workers’ rights, and stop trade cheating. But slapping tariffs on goods traded between the U.S. and Canada will drive up prices and cripple demand, leading to job losses in several industries across both nations.

When it comes to U.S. and Canadian aerospace trade, for example, the proposed 25 percent tariffs would be fatal friendly fire.

The proposed across-the-board tariffs would threaten the livelihoods and families of manufacturing and other workers in aerospace and defense in both nations, as well as the future of an industry vital to national security, transportation, and innovation.

Our members assemble civilian and military aircraft, build missiles and rockets, and manufacture parts and components. They also provide skilled, technical maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for such equipment.

Our workers have already been slammed by decades of imbalanced and unenforced trade agreements and policies. We have seen mass offshoring of vital jobs in the aerospace industry, thanks to trade policies that treated workers as pawns. Millions of good-paying, high-skilled U.S. and Canadian jobs were shifted to countries where workers have little to no labour rights so wages are low and conditions are dangerous.

The proposed tariffs would be a direct assault on the deeply integrated supply chains that provide the backbone of aerospace manufacturing. The consequences could be devastating: production delays and lack of military readiness, increased costs and, most critically, the potential loss of thousands of IAM Union jobs in aerospace, shipbuilding, and defense manufacturing across the U.S. and Canada.

Why? The U.S. and Canadian aerospace industries are tightly linked. Many Canadian aircraft contain numerous U.S.-made parts. Canadian companies source components from major U.S. corporations as well as countless small- and medium-sized businesses across every U.S. state. This symbiotic relationship also means that Canadian aerospace and defense companies employ a significant number of people in the U.S.

Imposing tariffs on Canada would be like cutting off our nose to spite our face. It would disrupt U.S. exports, break well-established supply chains, and undermine the competitiveness of our aerospace and defense industries just as China is making historic investments to build its own air and sea capacity.

Indeed, according to the U.S. International Trade Administration, Canada is the second-largest destination for U.S. exports of civil aircraft, engines, and parts while the U.S. is the biggest destination for such Canadian exports.

The tariffs would decimate an industry that contributes more than $874 billion to the U.S. economy, and nearly $30 billion to Canada’s GDP. It also supports more than 2 million American workers in good jobs worth an average of $104,577 in total wages and benefits, and 218,000 such jobs in Canada.

The U.S. and Canadian aerospace and defense industries are a rare bright spot—together, we export more than we import. Plus, goods trade between the U.S. and Canada is balanced if you control for Canadian oil exports. These tariffs could destroy that success.

Rather than engaging in short-sighted trade wars, we need a comprehensive, long-term strategy that strengthens manufacturing and prioritizes workers’ interests. This reprieve offers the opportunity for workers and unions from both countries to participate in developing these solutions.

A new strategy requires a fundamental shift in approach.

We need a united front—government, businesses, industry associations, and labor—working together to forge a trade policy that benefits all stakeholders. Workers must have a voice in decisions that directly affect their lives and livelihoods, and must not be treated as bargaining chips.

And IAM’s high-skilled and experienced workforce has a lot to contribute to creating a winning approach. We stand ready to engage in meaningful discussions with our nations’ leaders, share our expertise, and work towards solutions that ensure a stable, prosperous future for U.S. and Canadian aerospace, defense and manufacturing.

To defend our nations, maintain our global standing and rebuild our production capacity and resilient supply chains, we must invest in developing future generations of well-trained workers.

This is not just about protecting jobs. At issue is preserving and strengthening a critical sector that contributes significantly greatly to both the U.S and Canadian economies and national security.

Local 2113 Veoneer safety systems Canada members achieve major gains in new collective agreement

Around 300 members of Veoneer Safety Systems Canada in Markham, Ontario, part of IAM Union Local 2113, have ratified a new collective agreement that brings substantial improvements to their working conditions. The agreement, a result of tireless negotiation, includes several key enhancements aimed at supporting the health and financial wellbeing of the workforce.

One of the most notable victories in this new deal is the introduction of individual sick days, a first for the group. This marks a significant step in recognizing the personal health needs of employees. In addition, the collective agreement sees an increase in the healthcare spending account, providing workers with more flexibility in managing their healthcare costs.

Pension benefits also saw substantial improvements, ensuring better retirement security for the workers. Along with these enhancements, members will receive general wage increases, reflecting the company’s recognition of their efforts and commitment.

The bargaining committee, composed of Jamie Runco, Wilfred Lam, Penny Frangou, and Ralph Aquino, played a crucial role in securing these benefits. Despite the challenges presented by the company’s split into two bargaining units following a sale two years ago, the committee stayed focused on securing improvements. They worked tirelessly to protect and enhance the benefits in the collective agreement, advocating passionately for the needs of the membership.

This successful outcome reflects the strength and determination of Local 2113, ensuring that its members can now look forward to a more secure future with better health benefits and financial stability.

Keeping Up with the IAM Union: A busy start to the year!

It’s been a busy start to the year for the IAM Union, with our General Vice-President of Canada (GVP) David Chartrand hitting the ground running.

From meeting with Executive members in Local 2323, Local 2413, Local 1295, and Local 235, along with the Chief of Staff Ralph Martin and Confidential Secretary Magaly Fadel, to planning even more visits to engage with members of all locals across Canada, this year is all about connection, collaboration, and driving our shared vision forward.

Since his first nomination, GVP David Chartrand has been committed to meeting and listening to every local, understanding their unique needs, and ensuring we are all working toward a stronger future. Unfortunately, the pandemic slowed these efforts, but now nothing can stand in our way.

We are here to stand strong for workers, especially in these challenging times that are affecting workers everywhere. That’s why we’re not only connecting with locals but also engaging with the Prime Minister at key events like the Canada-US Economic Summit and traveling to Washington for critical discussions with the Premiers. Our commitment to driving positive change remains firm, and we will keep pushing forward on all fronts.

The IAM Union is more energized than ever, and with more local visits and initiatives on the horizon, we are shaping a brighter future for all our members.

Together, we will keep pushing boundaries and setting the vision for success to give workers what they deserve.

IAM Union joins Canadian-US AFL-CIO & CLC roundtable on tariffs in Washington

Washington, D.C. – David Chartrand, General Vice-President (GVP) of the IAM Union in Canada, recently joined a roundtable discussion on tariffs at the Canadian-US American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) meeting in Washington, D.C.

The gathering brought together Canadian Premiers, leaders from the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC), and labour representatives from both the U.S. and Canada to discuss the challenges and opportunities of tariffs and trade policies. Some of the key attendees included Bea Bruske, President of the CLC, P.J. Akeeagok, Premier of Nunavut, Wab Kinew, Premier of Manitoba, Liz Shuler, President of the AFL-CIO, and David Eby, Premier of British Columbia.

Held at the AFL-CIO headquarters, the meeting focused on protecting jobs on both sides of the border. It was made clear that international unions, which represent workers in both countries, are in a strong position to influence policies and must continue standing together in solidarity.

The AFL-CIO and CLC are committed to working in a coordinated effort and will continue collaborating on strategies to fight for workers’ rights and ensure their voices are heard in trade and tariff discussions. Both organizations recognize the power of unity in advocating for stronger protections for workers, pushing for policies that prioritize fair wages, safe working conditions, and job security.

Unions also discussed the impact of tariffs, noting that some workers are already losing jobs, and some employers fear tariffs could lead to closures and economic instability. However, the focus was on protecting workers, not politics. The Premiers also stressed their willingness to work with labour and anyone dedicated to protecting jobs and workers’ rights.

David Chartrand represented the IAM, along with Hassan Solomon, Political and Legislative Director, and Peter Greenberg, International Affairs Director at the IAM in the U.S. All three IAM representatives played key roles in advocating for policies that protect workers’ rights and promote sustainable economic growth for both nations.

The IAM’s commitment to worker-focused policies was a key point during the discussion, where leaders from both sides of the border expressed solidarity. The need for fair trade practices to protect jobs in important industries like manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive, while also safeguarding workers’ rights, was emphasized.

The meeting also tackled the issue of comments suggesting Canada could become the “51st state,” which was strongly rejected by all attendees, as such remarks are unwelcome.

In the end, the meeting emphasized that tariffs should be targeted at countries that are abusing trade practices. However, this is not the case with Canada, which remains committed to fair trade practices that support workers and communities.

As discussions continue, the IAM remains focused on advocating for long-term strategies that address current challenges while ensuring a fair and sustainable economic future.

Tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum would be a gut punch to workers

Brian Bryant, International President of the 600,000-member IAM Union, and David Chartrand, IAM Canadian General Vice President, issued the following statement regarding President Trump’s announcement of a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports into the United States: 

“A 25% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum imports would be a gut punch to workers on both sides of the border. It will lead to job losses, higher consumer prices, and broken supply chains vital to industries like auto, aerospace and defense.

“These proposed tariffs will not protect or grow American jobs – it will destroy them. The U.S. and Canadian economies are linked at the hip. Slapping a 25% tariff on these critical materials from Canada would put our national security at risk. 

“Many of our members in aerospace and defense depend on parts and materials flowing freely between the U.S. and Canada. These tariffs will throw a wrench into the whole system, putting thousands of IAM Union and other jobs at risk. Our union doesn’t oppose tariffs, but we are advocates for strategic tariffs that protect domestic manufacturing and enhance national security. 

“Instead of fighting with our closest ally, we should collaborate with Canada to take on real threats like China and Mexico. Unfair trade practices by China and Mexico have decimated the American aluminum industry, not Canada. We need cooperation, not conflict, to build a strong North American manufacturing sector. 

“We urge President Trump to pull all stakeholders – government, business, and labor – together to forge a comprehensive strategy to protect and grow critical manufacturing in the United States and Canada.”

The IAM Union is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across the United States and Canada.

Solidarity and unity at MTU facility

On Thursday, February 13th, 2025, a handout of solidarity posters and pins took place at the MTU facility to congratulate the members on their strong strike vote mandate from the day prior and celebrate their unity. Members of the bargaining committee, Local 764, District 140 of the IAM, and representation from the IAM International were present and were warmly welcomed by a supportive membership.

Brother Dave Flowers, President and Directing General Chairperson (PDGC) for District 140, and Tania Canniff, General Chairperson for District 140, were there to show their support. The event also included Christy Slauenwhite, Recording Secretary for Local 764, David Marshall, Secretary-Treasurer for Local 764, and Chris Cheung, Health and Safety Coordinator for District 140 and President of Local 764. Steve Prinz, IAM Canadian Representative from the International, also joined to show solidarity.

The overwhelming mandate shows management that the skilled membership at MTU stands united in their pursuit to get the fair contract they deserve and are prepared to do whatever it takes to achieve it.

Weldco Heavy Industries Ltd. achieves significant gains through unity and support

The members of Weldco Heavy Industries Ltd., part of District 14 Local 99 in Alberta, have once again demonstrated the incredible power of unity and solidarity. Thanks to the support of the membership and the dedication of the Negotiation Committee, the recent ratification of the new contract brings forward a range of significant gains that will improve the work environment and enhance the benefits package for all members and their families.

The successful ratification marks a significant milestone, as the collective efforts of the workers have secured important improvements in key areas such as wages, allowances, and safety provisions. The strength of the membership throughout this process has been a proof to the power of collaboration and shared purpose.

Contract highlights and key advancements include:

1. Wage Increases – A 5% increase in year one, 4% in year two, and 3% in year three.
2. Boot Allowance – An increase to $250.00.
3. New Equipment Allowance – $250.00 annually.
4. Living Out Allowance (LOA) – A $2,100.00 increase, with an additional $600.00 for condo members.
5. Safety Glasses Access – Improved access to industrial safety glasses for members.
6. PPE Language – Updated language to reflect current standards for personal protective equipment.
7. Mutuals Language – Enhanced language regarding mutual agreements between employer and employees.
8. Drug Testing – New language clarifying drug testing protocols.
9. Retro Pay – Clear provisions regarding retroactive pay for members.

The collective strength and commitment of the Weldco Heavy Industries Ltd. members were critical in achieving these improvements, ensuring that the future holds even greater opportunities for all members.

This new contract is a powerful reflection of what can be accomplished when workers come together in support of their rights and each other. Congratulations to all involved for securing a better and more prosperous future.

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Bill 89: A serious threat to the social climate

With Bill 89, the Minister of Labour, Jean Boulet, is attacking the rights of over 4.9 million workers in Quebec.

David Chartrand, General Vice-President of the IAM union in Canada, in a published article, condemns the intention to give the Minister of Labour the power to suspend the right to strike, which, according to him, leads to confrontation rather than good faith negotiations.

Chartrand emphasizes that this measure threatens the fundamental rights of workers, while risking harm to labour relations and escalating social tensions. Read the full article here.

Local 2413 members at AAS Canada win at the bargaining table

Local 2413 members working at AAS Canada at Toronto Pearson International Airport secured significant victories at the bargaining table this week, marking a major milestone in their fight for better wages and benefits.

These dedicated workers are essential to the daily operations of the airport, handling the circulation of luggage carts used by passengers as they arrive at Toronto Pearson. Their hard work behind the scenes is crucial to ensuring smooth airport operations, and this contract represents a hard-earned win for their efforts.

The new contract was accepted with immense support as 94% of the members voted in favor.

Key provisions of the deal include the introduction of a wage scale that immediately increases wages by up to 13% based on seniority. The agreement also provides additional vacation weeks for workers with 15 and 20 years of service, a significant benefit for long-serving members.

General Chairperson Dan Janssen praised the bargaining committee’s hard work: “I have to give credit to the bargaining committee for their hard work and dedication throughout this process. They knew what the members wanted and held firm in order to achieve these gains.”

The IAM union represents thousands of airport workers, including hundreds of members across three departments at AAS Canada at Toronto Pearson. This contract victory serves as a reminder of the power of solidarity and the importance of strong representation at the bargaining table.