Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed strong criticism of the American owner of Stelco, a steelmaker based in Hamilton, during a press conference on Wednesday. He stated he is prepared to confront the company's CEO, Lourenco Goncalves, over his support for U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods. Ford made these remarks while announcing new training and employment services for workers affected by the tariffs.

Cleveland-Cliffs, the company that purchased Stelco for $3.4 billion Canadian last year, has been advocating for increased tariffs since President Donald Trump took office. Currently, Canadian-made steel and aluminum face a 50 percent tariff when entering the United States.

Speaking at the Stelco union headquarters on Barton Street East, Ford emphasized his support for the workers but expressed frustration with Goncalves's stance on tariffs. "He doesn't give two hoots about people who work at Stelco when he's signing all these letters," Ford said. He urged workers to remember that their owner does not support them.

Ford suggested that Cleveland-Cliffs should consider finding a new owner for Stelco or that the province might step in to purchase the company. "I look forward to getting a phone call from him because he has my number," Ford stated. "I'm going to blast him." He later apologized for his heated remarks, saying, "Sorry guys — I get passionate about this because I want to protect our country and province."

The U.S. government recently announced an increase in steel and aluminum tariffs on over 400 products, including wind turbines and heavy equipment. Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath described the tariff hike as "devastating news" for the city. She warned that the new tariffs could have a catastrophic impact on local workers, manufacturers, and families if they remain in effect.

Horwath stated, "Cross-border trade keeps our factories running and our economy moving. This decision threatens both."

In response to the tariffs, Goncalves praised the U.S. government's actions, stating that they provide certainty for the American domestic market. He expressed gratitude to Trump for the decision, which he believes will allow Cleveland-Cliffs to continue investing in its U.S. operations.

As of now, neither Stelco's union nor Cleveland-Cliffs has responded to requests for comment regarding the situation.