New Flyer invests in Winnipeg manufacturing facilities, Oct 2024
- A $38-million investment from the Canadian federal and provincial governments will enhance New Flyer facilities in Winnipeg.
- The investment aims to boost production of electric and fuel cell buses, with Canadian content starting in fall 2025 and potentially creating 250 new jobs.
- This initiative exemplifies a commitment to advancing Canada’s manufacturing sector while supporting good union jobs and community growth.
On October 25, 2024, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, a $38-million investment from the federal and provincial governments was announced to enhance the New Flyer facilities, positioning Canada as a competitor in the advanced manufacturing sector. This initiative aims to increase Canadian content in new electric and fuel cell buses beginning in fall 2025, forecasted to generate approximately 250 additional jobs. Unifor National President Lana Payne emphasized the significance of such investments for the Canadian manufacturing landscape, highlighting that these efforts will create and sustain good union jobs. Unifor, representing over 320,000 workers across various sectors, advocates for union-made goods and Canadian content in public transport procurement. Their commitment extends to promoting equality, social justice, and economic growth in Canada and globally. The local chapter, Unifor Local 3003, comprises more than 700 employees at the New Flyer facility, underlining the importance of union representation in the region. The enhancement of the manufacturing facility not only reinforces Canada’s position in the sustainable transportation market but also aligns with broader environmental goals by producing greener transit options. Gavin McGarrigle, Unifor's Western Director, noted that investing in union-made transit vehicles contributes to community development and a more sustainable future. Overall, this investment reflects a strategic industrial approach focused on bolstering the Canadian economy through high-quality manufacturing and the promotion of skilled labor, ensuring prosperity for the workforce involved in the sector.