Statement from MPP Monte McNaughton on the Closure of Caterpillar’s Ontario Locomotive Office

Ontario PC Critic for Economic Development, Employment & Infrastructure Monte McNaughton (MPP for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex) issued the following statement on the news that Caterpillar is closing its Electro-Motive Diesel rail locomotive office in London, Ontario:

“It is unfortunate to hear that employees of Caterpillar’s London office will be out of a job so close to the holidays.  The sad reality is that many of these employees will be hard pressed to find other good paying jobs here in Ontario.

The Liberal Government’s economic policies have resulted in Ontario’s manufacturing sector finding it harder and harder to compete with other provinces or comparable U.S. states. Ontario has the highest sub-national debt, among the highest energy costs in North America, and is a haven for red tape. The Wynne Liberals’ policies have made Ontario an unattractive investment.

The job-killing ORPP payroll tax is creating more uncertainty at a time when companies need stability in order to invest.

The Liberals have once again shown a lack of leadership, demonstrating that this government has no real plan to strengthen Ontario’s economy. We can – and we must- do better.”