Today the NDP Caucus urged government to work collaboratively in response to the tariffs the United States is imposing on Corner Brook Pulp and Paper.
Leader Lorraine Michael (MHA, St. John’s East-Quidi Vidi) says the most recent American ‘tariff-hit’ to Kruger’s mill in Corner Brook, while beyond our control, could seriously harm the province’s forestry industry.
“We understand that the province has very little power, but we’re all in it together and want people to know we’re concerned,” Michael said. “Opposition parties wouldn’t be in the dark so much if we worked through a committee structure to strategize together.”
“I ask the Premier, will he urgently convene a meeting with representatives of all three provincial parties and our seven Federal MPs so we can discuss and strategize about how we can work and act collaboratively for the future of this province?” Michael said in Question Period.
Gerry Rogers (MHA, St. John’s Centre) says, as is evident from recent developments, this province’s economic well-being is at the mercy of volatile international markets because of our heavy reliance on the development of our natural resources.
“When we put our economic eggs mainly in this one trade-driven basket, we are extremely vulnerable,” Rogers said. “I ask the Premier where is his concrete, comprehensive, community-based action plan for diversifying our economy to ensure sustainability in all regions of the province to better protect us from volatile international markets in the future?” Rogers said.
Rogers says Muskrat Falls is a glaring example of what can happen when a government operates in secrecy and behind closed doors.
“I ask the Premier, will he agree to a transparent process of collaboration with communities and stakeholder groups most affected so that their ideas are part of the discussions, and they are kept informed about any and all developments related to tariffs?” Rogers asked.