FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Nov. 15, 2013
SIMCOE – MPP Toby Barrett is concerned with a disturbing trend following the announcement of Heinz closing its operations in Leamington.
Heinz announced yesterday it would be shutting down its Leamington plant, a main employer in the community for more than 100 years. The plant closure will mean another 800 people out of work in Ontario and will have a dramatic impact on farmers who grow processing tomatoes.
Barrett points to similarities between the Heinz closure and the closure of Bick’s operations in Dunnville and Delhi. As well, many food processing facilities have shut down in recent years.
“Ontario has lost 600,000 manufacturing jobs in recent years,” Barrett said. “Government needs to address the factors that are forcing companies and jobs out of the province.”
He explained rural areas are hit not only with loss of processing jobs but also related hits on farmers, farm labourers and related agri-business.
“Under the shadow of losing jobs, we clearly need a plan to bring back the economy and create new employment,” Barrett said. “Job creation lies with sensible tax policy, labour policy, energy policy and eliminating unnecessary regulation.
“Really it’s the whole community that is impacted by these closures. But today the most important thing is the hundreds of people who have just found out that they are losing their jobs. We are thinking of them and will push the government to do whatever they can to help them and their community.
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For more information contact MPP Toby Barrett at 519-428-0446