The relationship between Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Ontario Premier Doug Ford has often been portrayed as one of political rivalry, with Ford being seen as a conservative leader and Trudeau as a liberal. However, recent events surrounding the Stellantis plant project have revealed that their supposed conflict may be nothing more than a facade. In reality, Ford’s actions seem to align more with supporting Trudeau’s agenda rather than defending the interests of the people of Ontario.
A Puppet in Trudeau’s Hands:
Despite being a conservative leader, Ford has displayed a surprising level of cooperation and support for Trudeau’s initiatives. One such example was their joint announcement of a $3.6 billion investment in electric vehicle production facilities in Windsor and Brampton. This move showcased Ford’s willingness to work hand in hand with Trudeau, despite their supposed political differences.
Furthermore, Ford‘s compliance with Trudeau’s imposition of the emergency act during the Freedom Convoy demonstrates his loyalty to the prime minister. By not standing up against extreme measures taken by the government, Ford failed to protect the rights of the protestors and instead acted as a puppet, carrying out Trudeau’s bidding.
The Stellantis Saga:
The recent developments surrounding the Stellantis plant project shed further light on the dynamic between Trudeau and Ford. Stellantis and LG Energy Solution had previously announced a $5 billion investment in the plant. However, construction has now come to a halt, and both companies have expressed concerns about the federal government’s failure to fulfill its agreement.
The CEOs of Stellantis and LG Energy Solution wrote to Trudeau, highlighting the government’s unfulfilled promises regarding production incentives. They claimed that Ottawa had confirmed in writing five times that it would match production incentives under the United States’ Inflation Reduction Act, but has failed to do so. The federal government, in turn, has put pressure on Ontario, insisting that the province should contribute its “fair share” to the project.
Ford’s Disappointment:
Doug Ford has although expressed his disappointment with the federal government’s handling of the situation, emphasizing that the province did not make production subsidy commitments. However, he has stated that he is working with officials in Ottawa to address the issue. This response raises questions about Ford’s true intentions and whether he is genuinely advocating for the people of Ontario or simply playing a role assigned to him by Trudeau.
Ford has said he is disappointed with how the federal government has handled the issue since the province didn’t make those production subsidy commitments, but said he is working with officials in Ottawa.
“I will confirm we’re putting more money on the table,” he said after an unrelated announcement in St. Catharines, Ont.
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“This is all about saving jobs and giving people the quality of life they deserve in southwestern Ontario.”
Stellantis has said the battery facility to supply plants in North America will employ about 2,500 people. Auto parts makers expect the total impact to be about 10,000 indirect jobs
A Betrayal of Ontario:
The implications of Ford’s compliance with Trudeau’s agenda are clear: the people of Ontario may bear the consequences of his actions. By allowing Trudeau to take credit for the Stellantis project and subsequently passing the financial burden onto the province, Ford has betrayed the interests of the Ontario public. As a result, the people may face additional financial strain and bear the brunt of a project that was originally touted as a boon for the region.
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The supposed rivalry between Doug Ford and Justin Trudeau appears to be nothing more than a facade, as their actions and cooperation suggest a deeper alliance. Ford’s compliance with Trudeau’s initiatives, lack of resistance to extreme measures, and willingness to shoulder the financial burden of the Stellantis project all point to a lackey relationship rather than a genuine political opposition. The consequences of this dynamic may ultimately be borne by the people of Ontario, who are left to question whether their elected leaders truly have their best interests at heart.
