SASKATOON — The Sask NDP is urging Canada's premiers to fast-track massive infrastructure projects. The Sask NDP says this is vital to secure the country's economic future and reduce dependence on trade with the United States, especially with new tariffs expected from President Donald Trump.As the premiers gathered in Saskatoon for the First Ministers Meeting, the Sask NDP pressed for immediate action on generational builds. These include more rail lines, pipelines, and power transmission lines. The goal is to get Saskatchewan exports to new global markets..“This is a critical moment of consensus,” said Sask NDP Jobs and Economy Critic Aleana Young. “We can focus on the future and get generational projects built. Our future depends on greater access to overseas markets in Asia, Europe, Mexico, and South America. We can no longer depend on the US as a reliable trading partner. This is our opportunity.”Young said both federal and provincial governments must support key investments. These include expanding rail and port capacity to move farm and mining products quickly, building a pipeline to the East Coast for western oil and gas to reach Europe, improving electrical transmission lines to sell Saskatchewan power across Canada and beyond, and twinning Highway One coast-to-coast so truckers can move goods safely without entering the US.The Sask NDP also demands Saskatchewan steel be prioritized for these projects as Trump plans to double the steel tariff to 50%..They want the Sask Party government to cancel contracts with American firms and should be replaced with Canadian companies.“Steelworkers know firsthand that depending too much on the United States makes us vulnerable to tariffs, trade disputes, and job losses,” said Young.“Scott Moe and the Sask Party cannot bury their heads in the sand and pretend this is business as usual with their buddy Donald Trump and those in the party base who want us to become the 51st state. Let’s be clear — our best path forward is to build a strong economy for Saskatchewan within a united Canada.”“The Prime Minister has committed to a new approach, and we are optimistic that there will be real and immediate action to get the job done,” said Young.
