Canada’s premiers concluded their annual three-day conference in Winnipeg on Wednesday, calling on Ottawa to take stronger actions to bolster economic growth and trade.
Hosted by Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson, the premiers have requested a dedicated meeting with the Prime Minister to discuss infrastructure priorities. Stefanson emphasized the need for partnerships to maintain Canada’s competitiveness, while also respecting each province’s unique jurisdictions.
The premiers are united in their goal of advancing infrastructure within communities and across jurisdictions, including the creation of national economic trade corridors. “Ensuring the smooth transportation of goods to markets is of utmost importance,” said Stefanson.
The Atlantic provinces, in particular, expressed concerns about upcoming clean-fuel regulations and urged Ottawa to offset some of the costs imposed on consumers. Other premiers stressed the importance of dialogue with Ottawa on how the costs of environmental regulations are distributed.
Ottawa has defended these policies, stating they are designed to reduce emissions while creating economic opportunities.
“The problem with the federal approach is that it’s all stick and no carrot,” said Alberta Premier Danielle Smith. “They want investment in green technology and encourage businesses to create jobs and expand. We can meet green energy standards and emissions targets, but we also need growing economies.”
Smith emphasized the need for Ottawa to invest in economic corridors, ports, rail lines, and pipelines to ensure product accessibility in the market. Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey also stressed that addressing climate change is important, stating, “We all want to do our part. This is about fairness and everyone contributing equally.”
In addition, the premiers voiced concerns about the bail system, urging Ottawa to reform the Criminal Code to prevent repeat offenses. They also suggested that the federal government could assist in resolving staffing shortages in the health-care system by streamlining recruitment through immigration.
© 2023 The Canadian Press
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
