As the U.S. trade war against Canada continues with additional tariffs coming into effect, NL NDP Leader Jim Dinn (St. John’s Centre) is calling on Premier Tony Wakeham to reconvene the Premier’s roundtable on tariffs.
When the first threat of tariffs came from the U.S. President, a Premier’s roundtable was created that brought unions, business, and stakeholders to the table to discuss ways to protect Newfoundland and Labrador workers and industries. With Canada rightly walking away from a bad deal, Dinn says now is the time to reconvene the roundtable and plan a provincial path forward.
“At this historic time in our nation’s history, Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who will be impacted by this trade war, whether it’s workers, business, or residents, deserve to have a provincial government that is out in front of this, not falling behind,” said Dinn. “Our response can’t just come from the Premier’s Office – it must include meaningful consultations with those who know deeply how this trade war is impacting us here at home.
“The Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Labour (NLFL) is clear: the provincial government has a role to play – it can’t just be federally led. We must do our part. Now is the time to get to the table, not only to forge a plan to protect our provinces industries and workers, but to strengthen our public services so that the increasing cost will not harm Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
When the roundtable was first struck, Dinn called on the former Premier to invite community groups and non-profits to the table. While the Premier decided to not include them at the time, Dinn believes that with 50% tariffs, along with retaliatory tariffs incoming, it’s time these groups are given a seat at the table.
“I think of groups like Connections for Seniors or Choices for Youth – these groups and many like them directly help those most in need in our province. While people are already feeling so squeezed financially by the cost of living, it’s important to have these groups involved in the conversation so no one gets left behind.”
“We believe in a true Team Canada approach, but we also need to be Team Newfoundland and Labrador.”