In the first of two portions in a series of Canadian Parliamentary committee hearings on the automobile industry held in early March, members of the Automotive Industry subcommittee invited executives of the leading car companies in Canada and representatives of the Canadian Auto Workers Union to examine challenges facing the auto sector in Canada, the current global economic crisis, and the impact of the U.S. auto industry on Canada. 

Mr. Mondragon suggested that the government approve a plan whereby Ford Canada offered a $3,500 stimulus or “credit” for Canadians who “scrap” their old cars for new ones. Most of the questions dealt with creating new jobs in light of the recent cutbacks in Ford and layoffs. Other questions centered on negotiations with CAW (Canadian Auto Workers) and unions. There were several references to the UAW and U.S. operations, as well as questions on a “comprehensive manufacturers initiative.”