OSHAWA -- A General Motors employee fears for the future of his family following the announcement Tuesday that the truck plant in Oshawa will close.
Steve Conway has worked at GM for 24 years and been an active member of the union for 10. Two years ago, he switched from working at the car plant to the truck plant because at the time it was considered more stable.
He said the constant layoffs have left him uncertain about the future for his family, which includes two young children.
"My employment at GM has helped us keep our house but I don't know what's going to happen," he said.
His three-year-old son Jack has undergone treatment for a brain tumour and the family was recently informed he is doing well. Mr. Conway said he's grateful for the benefits he receives from GM, which have allowed him to afford his son's medication.
"Here we are comfortable knowing Jack is OK and now there's this to worry about. If my son has to go back into treatment, I might not have that kind of protection."
Mr. Conway said that he is frustrated by the government's lack of action and believes policies should be built to keep Canadian jobs.
"The quality of life in this community is based on our paycheques. If we're not working, they're not getting our business. More companies will end up downsizing or closing."
Mr. Conway said he hopes to receive a pension but thinks there should be better buy-out incentives offered to senior workers to save younger jobs.
"People in Canada shouldn't have to lower their standard of living," he said. "If you want to sell here, then build here. Taxpayers' money should be going to protect taxpayers' jobs. We're not being fair to our own people."
Recommend :