Volkswagen

Thursday May 18, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday May 18, 2023

Doug Ford’s Green Energy Hypocrisy: Subsidies, Subsidies Everywhere

November 22, 2019

In the tangled web of political hypocrisy, few examples are as glaring as the dispute over subsidizing foreign Electric Vehicle (EV) battery corporations in Ontario. Premier Doug Ford finds himself entangled in a battle with the federal government, demanding more funding to keep the Stellantis plant in Windsor. However, it’s essential to remember that Ford came to power on the promise of ending the Wynne/McGuinty Green Energy Deal. The irony is palpable.

The current showdown revolves around the Stellantis battery factory project, a significant endeavor that could shape Canada’s green energy economy. Stellantis, parent company of Chrysler, Jeep, and Fiat, halted construction on the $5-billion project, insisting that the federal government match the subsidies offered by the United States, similar to those given to Volkswagen in St. Thomas. Premier Ford argues that Ontario has already paid its fair share and it’s now Ottawa’s turn to sweeten the pot.

Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, on the other hand, asserts that both Stellantis and the province should shoulder their fair share of the increased business costs caused by the Biden administration’s Inflation Reduction Act. She highlights the need for provinces benefiting directly from such investments to contribute their share, emphasizing that the federal government’s resources are not infinite.

News: Ford ‘disappointed’ in feds’ handling of rocky Stellantis deal for EV battery plant  

July 11, 2018

What makes this situation particularly galling is the stark contrast between Ford’s stance now and his previous actions regarding green energy initiatives. When Ford assumed office, he wasted no time scrapping green incentive programs, such as the GreenON program, and canceling renewable energy projects, arguing that they were a burden on taxpayers. He touted these decisions as delivering on his campaign promise to dismantle the previous government’s green energy policies.

Yet here we are, witnessing Ford demanding significant subsidies to secure the future of the Stellantis plant, while simultaneously decrying the subsidies provided by the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act. It’s a case of selective opposition to government funding, conveniently forgetting his own assault on green energy just a few years ago.

The sheer scale of the subsidies involved is mind-boggling. The Trudeau government is prepared to spend up to $13 billion to subsidize the operation of the Volkswagen plant over the next decade, with an additional $700 million for construction. These numbers dwarf the $7 billion investment Volkswagen is making in the project. The disparity is alarming, raising concerns about the effectiveness and sustainability of such massive public spending.

October 16, 2020

While the push for a green energy economy is commendable, the question remains: Can we rely on public subsidies alone to secure long-term jobs and sustainable operations? Ford’s track record suggests otherwise. His cancellation of renewable energy projects and disdain for wind turbines underscores a lack of consistency and commitment to the green energy sector.

It’s crucial to hold our elected officials accountable for their actions and inconsistencies. Ford’s plea for more subsidies, despite his previous rejection of green energy initiatives, highlights a worrisome lack of principles. Ontario deserves a leader who genuinely prioritizes green energy, rather than one who opportunistically seeks subsidies while conveniently forgetting his own past decisions.

News: Ontario Premier Doug Ford defends $231-million cost of killing green-energy deals  

December 1, 2018

If Ford truly wants to be a champion of Ontario’s auto sector and green energy, he must recognize the importance of consistent policies and long-term investments. Hypocrisy and cherry-picking which subsidies to support will only lead to an unstable and uncertain future for Ontario’s green energy ambitions.

In the pursuit of a sustainable future, it’s essential to move beyond political theatrics and work towards comprehensive and transparent policies that foster genuine growth and innovation. Ontario deserves a leader who stands firm on their principles, even when the winds of political expediency blow in a different direction. (AI)

 

Wednesday May 17, 2023

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday May 17, 2023

Subsidy Buffet: Stalled Stellantis Project Raises Concerns of Demands from Foreign Corporations

The recent developments surrounding the Stellantis battery plant project in Windsor have sparked growing concerns about the implications of substantial government subsidies. The situation raises the alarm that such generous incentives might encourage other foreign corporations to demand similar treatment. It is akin to patrons at a restaurant, accustomed to table service, suddenly clamoring for unlimited access to an exclusive all-you-can-eat buffet.

April 28, 2023

Stellantis has confirmed that construction has come to a halt at the Windsor EV battery plant site, citing the failure of the Canadian government to fulfill its commitments as the primary reason. The potential scrapping of the project comes on the heels of Volkswagen receiving substantial subsidies totaling a staggering $13 billion to establish their presence in St. Thomas. The news has raised eyebrows, with Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressing his concerns about the situation.

News: Stellantis halts construction at Windsor EV battery plant over federal funding  

November 22, 2019

Premier Ford rightly points out that the federal government needs to demonstrate the same level of support they offered Volkswagen. He emphasizes the importance of the federal government stepping up and fulfilling its obligations, just as they have done previously. However, it is crucial to note that the federal government’s resources are not unlimited, as mentioned by Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland. This situation calls for a delicate balance between supporting vital investments and ensuring responsible allocation of resources.

The potential ramifications of the stalled Stellantis project extend beyond government commitments. Thousands of jobs hang in the balance, making it imperative for all parties involved to find a constructive resolution. The City of Windsor, committed to leveraging available resources, is actively seeking a solution that will benefit the community. Negotiations are ongoing, and it is essential for all stakeholders to work collaboratively towards a mutually beneficial agreement.

October 16, 2020

While the situation is concerning, Windsor-Tecumseh MP Irek Kusmierczyk provides reassurance that construction will continue, emphasizing the unwavering commitment to the project. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Minister of Innovation, François-Philippe Champagne, are actively engaged in discussions to secure a favorable outcome. It is encouraging to see the recognition of this investment as a generational opportunity for the auto sector and Canada as a whole.

However, the episode underscores the need for a comprehensive national auto policy. Without such a policy framework, it becomes challenging to navigate negotiations and ensure consistency in government support. Windsor West MP Brian Masse rightly points out the absence of a national auto policy as a contributing factor to the current concerns and uncertainties.

Opinion: Does a country have ‘no choice’ but to subsidize its auto industry?  

May 4, 2022

Moving forward, it is imperative for all levels of government to uphold their commitments and work collaboratively to establish a clear and consistent framework for supporting the auto industry. The Canadian economy relies heavily on this sector, and it is crucial to secure its future while ensuring responsible use of taxpayer funds.

The situation surrounding the Stellantis battery plant in Windsor serves as a wake-up call for the potential consequences of substantial government subsidies. While the commitment to supporting key investments is commendable, it is equally important to strike a balance between providing incentives and safeguarding the responsible use of public resources. A robust national auto policy can provide the necessary framework to address these challenges and ensure long-term success for the industry and the Canadian economy. (AI)

From sketch to finish, see the current way Graeme completes an editorial cartoon using an iPencil, the Procreate app, and a couple of cheats on an iPad Pro. If you’re creative, give editorial cartooning a try.

 

Wednesday September 23, 2015

By Graeme MacKay, Editorial Cartoonist, The Hamilton Spectator - Wednesday September 23, 2015 This is the refugee debate we ought to be having Dieter Zetsche surprised attendees of the Frankfurt auto show recently when he interrupted a presentation to opine on the 800,000 Syrian refugees that are expected to flood into Germany this year. The mustachioed chairman of Daimler AG, which makes Mercedes luxury cars, suggested the influx of asylum seekers could Òhelp foster another economic miracleÓ by offsetting the challenges posed by the countryÕs rapidly aging population. Zetsche went on to say the carmaker would help pay for housing for migrants in Stuttgart, while rival Volkswagen, not to be outdone, said it would find them trainee jobs. In Canada, by contrast, politicians have failed to draw a similar link between accepting large numbers of Syrian refugees and the potential for future economic growth, despite being in the midst of a federal election where economic matters are said to be top of mind among voters. Instead, the debate is focused narrowly on the need to balance humanitarian assistance with national security concernsÑnot that the number being talked about would have much of an economic impact anyway. The Harper governmentÕs promise to take another look at its policy, following significant public outcry, only resulted in a commitment to speed up by 15 months the resettlement of 10,000 Syrians, not accept more of them. Meanwhile, Tom MulcairÕs NDP has proposed bringing 10,000 refugees into the country by the end of this year, while Justin TrudeauÕs Liberals have promised to bring in 25,000 by January. It all raises an obvious question: Are we not only missing out on the chance to help those in desperate need, but a historic economic opportunity, too? (Continued: MacLeans) http://www.macleans.ca/economy/economicanalysis/this-is-the-refugee-debate-we-ought-to-be-having/ Germany, migrants, refugees, Syria, Europe, Volkswagen, automobile, emissions, stan

By Graeme MacKay, Editorial Cartoonist, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday September 23, 2015

This is the refugee debate we ought to be having

Dieter Zetsche surprised attendees of the Frankfurt auto show recently when he interrupted a presentation to opine on the 800,000 Syrian refugees that are expected to flood into Germany this year. The mustachioed chairman of Daimler AG, which makes Mercedes luxury cars, suggested the influx of asylum seekers could “help foster another economic miracle” by offsetting the challenges posed by the country’s rapidly aging population. Zetsche went on to say the carmaker would help pay for housing for migrants in Stuttgart, while rival Volkswagen, not to be outdone, said it would find them trainee jobs.

In Canada, by contrast, politicians have failed to draw a similar link between accepting large numbers of Syrian refugees and the potential for future economic growth, despite being in the midst of a federal election where economic matters are said to be top of mind among voters.

Instead, the debate is focused narrowly on the need to balance humanitarian assistance with national security concerns—not that the number being talked about would have much of an economic impact anyway. The Harper government’s promise to take another look at its policy, following significant public outcry, only resulted in a commitment to speed up by 15 months the resettlement of 10,000 Syrians, not accept more of them. Meanwhile, Tom Mulcair’s NDP has proposed bringing 10,000 refugees into the country by the end of this year, while Justin Trudeau’s Liberals have promised to bring in 25,000 by January.

It all raises an obvious question: Are we not only missing out on the chance to help those in desperate need, but a historic economic opportunity, too? (Continued: MacLeans)