QUESTION PERIOD — International Trade
Canada-U.S. Trade
December 15, 2021
Honourable senators, my question is for the Leader of the Government in the Senate. Senator Gold, we noticed last week that two Canadian ministers informed U.S. officials that if certain trade irritants were introduced in the United States — I am referring here to the Buy American electric vehicles tax credit — the Canadian government would take trade action against those measures.
I’m wondering why the Canadian government hasn’t taken any action against the trade irritant that has already been introduced regarding the ban on P.E.I. potatoes?
Thank you for your question. With regard to all of the trade issues that Canada and the United States have to deal with, I do understand that the potato issue is of special importance to Prince Edward Island and its farmers, processors and the community.
The measure was taken by Canada as a short-term measure to ensure that Canada and Prince Edward Island potato farmers were not exposed to more severe and potentially pernicious actions. Canada remains committed to defending the interests of the Canadian agriculture industry, whether it be in Prince Edward Island or elsewhere, whether it is softwood lumber or other issues and will take necessary measures when it is appropriate to take them.
Senator Gold, we appreciate the support. Prince Edward Islanders appreciate all the kind words we hear about the concern being expressed, but we wonder why there is no action.
We’re hearing about a potential issue that may become a trade irritant — which is important to Ontario and important to Canada — but that has not happened yet, while we are currently suffering under a trade irritant that is already in place and the Government of Canada has not sent similar letters or indications of what trade response it will take to that action. You talk about potato farmers and potato workers. We also send 5,000 transport trucks a year with potatoes to the United States. This has a significant impact across our economy in Prince Edward Island, similar to the impact any ban on electric cars would have in Ontario. Why the different standard? Rather than reassuring words, Prince Edward Islanders would like some action — and we would like it now — from the Government of Canada.
Thank you for your question. The impact of trade irritants on Prince Edward Island transporters, producers and all associated is as preoccupying to the Government of Canada as the impact on the auto industry in Ontario or the forestry industry throughout this country. Different problems require different responses. The Canadian government is not remaining inactive; it is simply using the tools and the channels appropriate in each specific case.
