Wellington-Halton Hills MP Michael Chong responds to A.O. Smith’s announcement that it will discontinue manufacturing operations in Fergus
FERGUS – Michael Chong, Member of Parliament for Wellington–Halton Hills, was today saddened to learn that A.O. Smith will be discontinuing manufacturing operations this summer at its residential water heater plant in Fergus.
“It’s unfortunate that so many people will be affected by the company’s announcement,” said Michael. “My thoughts are with the employees and their families during this difficult time.”
Upon learning of the job losses, Michael contacted A.O. Smith to offer federal government assistance. Over recent years, Michael worked with A.O. Smith on efforts to keep the plant operational by securing federal support. Through the Achieving Innovation and Manufacturing Excellence (AIME) initiative, the federal government helped A.O. Smith by providing it with funding to provide advanced skills training for its employees. Despite these efforts, and despite the federal government’s continued focus on job creation and economic growth, Canada is not immune to the continued economic uncertainty south of the border.
In light of the company’s announcement, Michael has made arrangements with the local Service Canada office. He requested that they coordinate with affected A.O. Smith employees in order to ensure that Employment Insurance (EI) benefits and other employment services are available and accessible for those affected by the company’s announcement.
Any employees affected by the A.O. Smith announcement who wish to access federal government services such as Employment Insurance can also contact MP Michael Chong’s office at (866) 878-5556.
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