U.S. tariffs could impact thousands of jobs in Nova Scotia, premier says

Nova Scotia’s premier says the country needs to stand united in the face of tariff threats from the incoming U.S. administration.

Tim Houston was in Ottawa on Wednesday alongside his fellow premiers and the prime minister to discuss a nationwide response to the 25 per cent tariffs floated by President-elect Donald Trump.

“A tariff at that level could impact thousands of Nova Scotian jobs,” Houston told reporters in Halifax after a cabinet meeting on Thursday morning. “It’s a serious issue, it’s something we are concerned about, and I’ll certainly do everything I can to stand up for Nova Scotia’s interests.”

“I think the federal government has a plan, and I can get behind that plan,” he added.

Houston and all fellow premiers, except for Alberta’s Danielle Smith, signalled their support Wednesday for Ottawa’s plan to respond to the looming U.S. threat.

“That’ll be up to her to decide,” Houston said when asked if Smith should reconsider her approach, adding he is focused on a “Team Canada” approach.

“I would also encourage other prominent Canadian business people in white suits to consider their position and support our country too,” Houston said, in an apparent message to Kevin O’Leary, who was pictured in a white suit alongside Smith and Trump at the incoming U.S. president’s Florida golf resort over the weekend.