| | This letter was written in support of General Motors bid for loan guarantees from the federal government of Canada. Good day Mr. Allen,
There is something happening in this country that disturbs me. The policies of the Conservative government are allowing industry in this country to die.
I live in Welland and have seen industry wither away over the years to the point that if our government does not do something soon, we may well find ourselves with no industry at all. We, as a country need to make or build things, as without manufacturing our economy is too reliant on others to supply goods. God forbid we find ourselves in another major war as we did in the Second World War. Will we import everything from China to fight it? Clearly manufacturing in Canada matters.
General Motors in Canada is looking for assistance from our government. They are looking for loan guarantees, not a bailout. The Big 3 including General Motors builds some great vehicles. They have won numerous awards over the last few years for quality, fuel efficiency and productivity although it seems that few in the media have noticed. If the domestic automakers are guilty of anything it is that they provide employment here instead of shipping everything overseas. They invest here and employ workers here. Have you tried to buy Canadian made home electronics lately? They are also guilty of providing a decent living wage to their workers, providing health care and benefits. They pump millions and millions into our local economies every year not only through our manufacturing plants but through dealers and parts suppliers. Parts suppliers that also manufacture parts for Honda and Toyota. Seven workers depend on their jobs for every one that works at either GM, Ford or Chrysler.
We can't let the auto industry die as the cost to not only our communities but the country as a whole would be too great. Our children need to inherit a country where those that want to work, can. We need a vibrant manufacturing industry. We have already lost 35.000 auto manufacturing jobs since 2003.
It has to stop. I know that we can count on you to do what you can to be sure that it does. GM, Ford and Chrysler need your help now.
Kind regards,
Bob Bowman |
