MPP Jim Wilson will speak at a public hearing in Washington; He will argue Ontario 'is not a national security risk to the U.S.'

Collingwood’s MPP is heading stateside to push President Donald Trump to reconsider his decision to implement tariffs on imports of automobiles and parts made in Canada and shipped to the USA.

MPP Jim Wilson was named the Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade earlier this month after Premier Doug Ford was sworn into office. His first trip for the role will be to Washington, DC and the public hearing on the proposed tariffs.

“I will be vigorously advocating for the Canadian and American jobs that depend on our historic trading relationship,” said Wilson in a statement released by his office yesterday (July 16). “I will be accompanied by Dean French, chief of staff to the Premier of Ontario, Doug Ford.”

The tariffs are being proposed under section 232, which deals with issues of trade affecting national security. The public hearing is part of the Trump administration’s investigation into whether or not importing cars without tariffs (from Canada, Mexico and the European Union) undermines the national security of the US.

"It is clear that Ontario is not a national security risk to the United States,” said Wilson. “In fact, the U.S. and Ontario share many of the same goals — together, we can advance our shared priorities of creating jobs on both sides of the border by developing strong, competitive business environments that spur innovation and growth.”

There are 46 scheduled witnesses for the public hearing, including Wilson and Canadian ambassador David McNaughton.

Wilson said the new PC government’s message has been and will continue to be that Ontario is open for business.

"The U.S. and Ontario share a unique economic relationship grounded in fair and balanced trade, integrated supply chains and complementary markets,” said Wilson in the statement from his office. "Ontario is open for business and we look forward to working with our American neighbours to create new jobs and better jobs for us all."

Wilson will be speaking at the hearing on Thursday, July 19 around 1:40 p.m. to 2:20 p.m.