In September, the Canadian federal and Ontario governments announced a combined $500 million in loans to Algoma Steel to support job protection and competitiveness amid U.S. tariffs. However, just over two months later, Algoma Steel issued 1,000 layoff notices, raising concerns about the effectiveness of taxpayer funding. Experts argue that the funds are essential for transitioning to cleaner technology, despite the reduced labor needs associated with electric-arc furnaces. Critics emphasize that future government support should be tied to maintaining employment levels to ensure accountability.
