Statement from Mayor Adrian Foster on the threat of U.S. tariffs

Clarington, Ontario – Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster has issued the following statement.

“Canada has consistently been a steadfast ally to the United States; the intimidation we are currently receiving from our southern neighbours is both unwarranted and disheartening. For decades, the economies and energy requirements of the U.S. and Canada have been intricately linked. President Trump’s threat of trade tariffs would hurt workers on both sides of the border and significantly increase the cost of numerous goods.

Although it is increasingly apparent that predicting what the U.S. may or may not do is impossible, it’s abundantly clear we must encourage everyone in our community to shop locally and buy Canadian items as much as possible. You can find Canadian goods and services through the Clarington Board of Trade and local BIAs. Visit our downtowns and seek out Canadian-produced goods to help support our local economy.

For our part, the Municipality also wants to work with Canadian businesses. That’s why we have created the new Clarington Vendor Directory. Local businesses can add their information to connect with municipal staff responsible for procurement. The directory will help staff identify businesses that can provide quotes for projects, services and goods within Clarington.

At the General Government Committee, Council directed staff to explore options to restrict the purchase of U.S. products and services by the municipality. It’s about putting Canada first, to safeguard and support the businesses that are the backbone of our local economy and community.

We must remember that Canada’s strength lies in supporting each other, upholding our values, and moving forward together. We don’t need to make Canada great again. We’re still great, eh?”