NSNDP raise concerns about the Houston government’s priorities as Nova Scotians brace for Trump tariffs

HALIFAX – On Thursday afternoon, NSNDP Leader Claudia Chender again raised concerns about the Houston government’s attack on the independence of the Auditor General.

Further, with the threat of tariffs just two weeks away, the Opposition is insisting that the government focus on delivering the help Nova Scotians deserve instead of restricting information. Chender says the government has also missed a significant opportunity to present a budget that would help families cope with the financial strain the threatened tariffs would bring.

“While the people in this province face considerable uncertainty, it's disappointing that the government’s legislative focus has been on consolidating their power and silencing scrutiny instead of meeting the needs of Nova Scotians,” said Chender. “The government has done little to protect renters, increase the amount of homes that people can actually afford, or attach more Nova Scotians to the primary care that they need.”

For the second time the premier is going to Washington to meet with business leaders and government without a delegation of individuals representing the varied interests of our province.

Other premiers have taken a team approach by establishing a task force of industry leaders, labour and representatives from sectors that are particularly vulnerable, ensuring more voices and perspectives have a seat at the table.

“Nova Scotians deserve to know what exactly is being done to prepare our economy, our workers and our communities. And to know that information on government spending from independent offices like the Auditor General are free from political influence,” said Chender.

“It's not too late for the government to assemble a task force to inform and execute their strategy against Trump’s tariffs. It’s not too late for them to be transparent with Nova Scotians about the path forward. It’s not too late for them to deliver the solutions that Nova Scotians deserve.”

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