“These tariffs have the potential to bring financial ruin to so many,” Beck told those gathered at the Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS) Annual General Meeting. “We’re talking about job losses, the loss of livelihoods and increased costs passed down to consumers.
“These tariffs cannot come to pass. Full stop. We need a Team Canada approach.”
Saskatchewan exported $27-billion worth of goods to the U.S. in 2023 alone. Beck said the tariffs, if implemented, would hammer the agricultural industry on both sides of the border.
“We need adults in the room who will make it clear what is at stake for producers, for the Canadian and U.S. economies and for consumers,” she said. “This can’t be about politics or self-serving interests. It’s about our future and a united response is required.”
Beck said there was a need for all levels of government to engage with representative groups in Canada and the U.S. and make it clear exactly what is at stake for the provincial economy, the national economy and the international economy.
“I will make a commitment to you that we will work tirelessly to advance your interests no matter which side of the House we sit on and no matter who is across the table from us,” Beck said. “Working collaboratively, we will advance our common interests and fight what doesn’t make sense for Saskatchewan.”
Beck was invited to address APAS after appointing herself the Saskatchewan NDP Shadow Minister for Agriculture & Rural Affairs.
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