The General Motors (GM) Oshawa Assembly Complex bid farewell to hundreds of autoworkers as the plant’s third shift came to an end early Friday morning. This shift closure not only affected over 700 GM employees but also triggered a wave of layoffs throughout the local auto industry.
The final midnight shift concluded at 6:30 a.m. on Friday, signifying a significant moment for the workforce and setting off a chain of job losses across the supply chain.
While some senior employees may have the opportunity to transfer to other shifts as per union regulations, Unifor reported that many impacted workers will not have this option.
These layoffs have left workers feeling frustrated, with many attributing their situation to the escalating trade tensions between Canada and the United States. The imposition of a 25% tariff on Canadian-made vehicles by the U.S. administration has led to shifts in production decisions within the industry, with Oshawa workers bearing the brunt of the consequences.
The uncertainty surrounding their financial security and ability to support their families has created a sense of unease within the plant, as highlighted by GM Chairperson Chris Waugh’s comments on Friday.
The workforce is calling for government intervention focused on strengthening trade relations with the United States, emphasizing the critical role of this market for Ontario’s economy.
In related news, GM had previously announced the elimination of the third shift as part of a strategic move to increase Silverado production at its facility in Fort Wayne, Ind. The Oshawa plant, known for manufacturing Chevrolet Silverado pickup trucks, has been directly impacted by these decisions.
Despite GM’s recent report of over $12 billion in pre-tax earnings for 2025 and plans for shareholder returns, including dividend increases and a substantial stock buyback, the contrast between these financial gains and the layoffs has only exacerbated tensions among the affected workforce.
GM assured that it has collaborated with Unifor to provide comprehensive support to employees facing job loss, offering separation packages, retirement assistance, and other benefits. Impacted workers will also receive Supplemental Unemployment Benefits in addition to Employment Insurance to help mitigate the financial impact of the layoffs.