This article has been provided by the office MPP Brian Saunderson.
For generations, communities like Oshawa and Windsor were recognized around the world for producing the cars and trucks we drive.
There was a time when our economy was solely measured on the ebb and flow of the auto sector.
While our province has certainly diversified, there is no denying the important role the auto sector plays, specifically in job creation.
I recently took part in the Auto Mayors Meeting in Stratford.
The Ontario Auto Mayors work collaboratively at the provincial and federal levels to promote awareness, advocacy and strategic policy initiatives to further strengthen the Canadian economy through advancements and investments in the automotive sector.
The Ontario Auto Mayors advocate for government incentives to ensure Ontario and Canada remain competitive with other auto jurisdictions.
During our most recent session, it was valuable to hear of the new innovations and technology that our province has in the works. We also visited several facilities that are currently undergoing expansion to grow with our population and serve Ontarians.
In Simcoe-Grey, Honda's historic $15-billion deal to construct its first comprehensive electric vehicle supply chain in Ontario will certainly be a boost to business and jobs in the area.
Last April, Honda Canada announced that it will build four new manufacturing plants in Ontario, including an electric vehicle assembly plant and a standalone battery manufacturing plant at its current facilities in Alliston.
New Tecumseth is surely positioned to grow substantially as a result of this massive investment by Honda.
The Japanese company already employs 4,200 people in its existing Alliston facility.
The two new plants will produce up to 240,000 vehicles per year and create more than 1,000 "well-paying manufacturing jobs" once fully operational in 2028. A recent report from the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers Association says roughly eight ancillary jobs are created for every plant assembly position.
Like the Oshawas and Windsors before us, the auto sector in Simcoe-Grey is definitely in high gear
Learn more about what MPP Brian Saunderson is doing in your community online here or find him on X.