SASKATOON — The Saskatchewan NDP will be watching closely the provincial government’s move to sign a memorandum of agreement with Ontario, thereby increasing inter-provincial trade and reducing its dependence on doing business with the US.
Shadow Minister for Jobs and Economy Aleana Young said removing regulatory barriers is one way for provinces to work closely together to improve their economic ties, as well as exploring other markets to further shield the country from U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff threats.
Young made her comment during a media availability event on Monday, June 2, a day after Premier Scott Moe signed a memorandum of agreement with his Ontario counterpart, Doug Ford, to lift barriers between their respective provinces and increase trade.
“Increasing inter-provincial trade with jurisdictions like Ontario, like Quebec, like the Maritimes, should be a priority for this [Saskatchewan] government. This MOU is worth the paper that it's signed on. We need actions, not just words on paper,” said Young.
“We will see, and we will be holding this government to account to ensure that there is a decrease in any regulatory barriers that might exist and an increase in inter-provincial trade between Saskatchewan and some of these jurisdictions that have historically lagged.”
The Regina South Albert MLA added that the MOU would eliminate some of the trade barriers that exist in the county. Still, it should not compromise regulations, health and safety, or protection for workers.
“I get it, Doug Ford is a popular guy. I would love to go for a beer with him myself,” Young said in jest. “But look at this, [the Ministers Meeting] is a moment that we have not seen in this country for decades.”
“You bet we're going to be watching closely and making sure this government isn't just showing up for photo ops, but is entrusted with the hard work of growing this economy and building this country.”
Prime Minister Mark Carney, more than a month since handing the Liberals another four-year mandate, is meeting with provincial premiers in the First Ministers gathering in Saskatoon. The meeting is being held in the province for the second time, following Regina's hosting in 1985.
“The First Ministers' gathering in Saskatoon is a historic meeting. This [the meeting] is the first of its kind in more than four decades. It could not come at a more critical moment for our province and our economy. Our collective future depends on greater access to overseas markets,” said Young.
“Markets in Asia, Europe, Mexico, and South America. We can no longer rely on the US as a key trading partner. Case in point, in two days, Trump is planning to double devastating tariffs on world-class Saskatchewan steel.”
Young, the NDP Whip, said the Opposition would continue to urge the Saskatchewan Party-led government to prioritize locally produced steel for infrastructure projects in the province, as well as for those across the country.
“We should bet on Saskatchewan and build Canada. We continue to demand that the Sask. Party government follow through on their promise to end contracts with American companies whenever possible and replace them with Canadian companies,” said Young.
“To date, it is worth noting that the Sask. Party has not eliminated a single American contract. Local business owners and steel workers that I've spoken to know firsthand that depending too much on the US makes us vulnerable to tariffs, trade disputes, and job losses.
