Ontario PC leader Hudak proposes manufacturing tax cuts

The Hamilton area could power Ontario’s economy in the 21st century, but only if the government acts to reverse the erosion of the province’s once-robust manufacturing sector, which has lost 300,000 jobs, according to PC Leader Tim Hudak.

“My Ontario will always create and build things in demand around the world, and I’ll put our workers up against anyone,” Hudak said while touring a facility in Stoney Creek, Ont. “But our manufacturing advantages have been beaten down by high taxes, unaffordable energy costs and rigid labour laws.”

Hudak has proposed a number of steps the province can take to boost Ontario’s manufacturing sector, including lower taxes, affordable electricity and changes to workplace rules.

“With its great industrial capacity, the Hamilton area has a foundation for 21st century manufacturing,” Hudak said. “But we’ve had disappointments too, so Ontario must get back in the game, or these new opportunities will pass us by.”