Selkirk Residents Concerned Over Impending U.S. Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum

Residents in Selkirk, Manitoba, are feeling anxious as they prepare for U.S. tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum. These tariffs are set to take effect at midnight on Wednesday.

Concerns About Job Losses

In the small steel-producing city of Selkirk, many residents are worried about the impact of a 25 percent tariff on their economy. U.S. President Donald Trump had briefly threatened to increase this tariff to 50 percent before Ontario Premier Doug Ford suspended a tax on electricity exports to the U.S.

The local Gerdau Ameristeel Manitoba steel mill, which has been a part of Selkirk's landscape since 1907, continues to be a major employer, providing jobs to many residents. However, more than 70 percent of the steel produced in Selkirk is sent to the United States, leading community leaders to voice their concerns.

Erin Rudniski, a local resident, expressed her fear as she noted, "Lots of people are going to lose jobs. I have friends that work in the industry and they're afraid for their jobs. They worry they may not be able to feed their families, which is a significant concern for us as Canadians."

Potential Economic Fallout

The Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters organization stated that the steel mill generates around $200 million worth of steel each year. Terry Shaw, the organization's vice-president for the Prairies, explained that the tariffs could cause severe damage not only to the workers but also to the city’s economy.

About one in twenty residents in Selkirk, which has a population of approximately 10,000, is employed in the steel industry. The ripple effect of potential layoffs could hinder various local businesses, including restaurants and shops.

Scott Lunny, a representative of the United Steelworkers Union, emphasized the frustration and anger among union members regarding the ongoing uncertainty caused by the trade war. He noted that a trade war would negatively impact jobs in both Canada and the United States, questioning the logic of the tariffs when they could harm U.S. manufacturing jobs as well.

A retired worker from the Gerdau mill, Wayne Halipchuk, expressed a more positive outlook, mentioning, "We've gone through this before and we survived." His confidence reflects a mixed sentiment among residents, as some remain hopeful for the future.

tariffs, steel, aluminum