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Canada's Steel Producers Welcome "Roadmap" for the Future of Canadian Manufacturing

February 7, 2007 ( Ottawa, ON )

On behalf of its members, The Canadian Steel Producers Association (CSPA) today expressed its support for “Manufacturing: Moving Forward—Rising to the Challenge”, that was tabled yesterday by the House of Commons Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Technology.

“The Committee has brought a much-needed focus on the importance of manufacturing to Canada’s continued economic success, as well as identifying important, practical actions to encourage investment and innovation”, said Ron Watkins, CSPA President. “We are encouraged that the Report was supported by Committee members from all four parties and look to the Government to move on its recommendations as soon as possible”

The report offers important recommendations in nine policy areas critical to the continued success of Canadian industry. As a starting point, the CSPA supports early action on the recommended fiscal measures to encourage investment in new equipment and processes, which would improve Canada’s productivity, innovation and environmental performance.

“The CSPA is especially pleased with the Committee’s attention to the importance of effective trade remedy laws and practices, which are essential to enabling Canada’s steel producers and other manufacturers to compete on a fair basis,” added Mr. Watkins. “The Committee has recognized the importance of addressing unfair trading practices, such as dumping and subsidies by some foreign competitors and governments. We look forward to engaging the government in a review the functioning of Canada’s trade law regime.”

As a founding member of the Canadian Manufacturing Coalition, the CSPA will continue to work with other manufacturing stakeholders in support of the Committee’s conclusion that a sustainable and globally competitive manufacturing sector should be a priority for Canada.

The CSPA is the voice of Canada’s $13.5 billion steel producing industry. CSPA members serve North American customers in many sectors, including the automotive, energy, construction, packaging and other manufacturing industries. CSPA members are committed to economic, environmental and social sustainability.

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Contact:

Ron Watkins
President, Canadian Steel Producers Association (CSPA)
(613) 238-6049