News Releases

News Release - Manitoba

June 5, 2019

Manitoba Lauds Andrew Scheer's Pledge to Reduce Interprovincial Trade Barriers



Deputy Premier Heather Stefanson today lauded federal Opposition leader Andrew Scheer’s pledge to work with provinces to reduce interprovincial trade barriers.
 
“We welcome this strong commitment of federal engagement on the reduction of interprovincial trade barriers,” said Stefanson.  “Freer trade within Canada will encourage greater economic growth and business competitiveness.”
 
Premier Brian Pallister has previously called for a grand bargain between the federal and provincial governments to address two of the most important issues facing Canadians – the enormous cost of interprovincial trade barriers and inadequate federal support for health care.  Federal support for health care remains unacceptably low, and interprovincial trade barriers cost Canadians the equivalent of a seven per cent sales tax.
 
The grand bargain envisioned with the federal government is more fully described in an op-ed at https://business.financialpost.com/opinion/how-to-stop-the-provinces-from-blocking-free-trade-offer-this-grand-bargain.
 
Stefanson added the commitment to reduce interprovincial trade barriers is complementary to the provincial government’s passage of The Reducing Red Tape and Improving Services Act, which eliminates unnecessary regulatory requirements that hamper growth and improve private-sector job creation.  
 
“These commitments have resulted in improved economic stability and competitiveness, and have helped to reinforce Manitoba’s reputation as one of the most improved provinces,” said Stefanson.  “We would welcome an opportunity for a discussion with the federal government to eliminate inter-provincial trade barriers and ensure we can unlock economic opportunities that will benefit our province and our country.”  
 
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