Parksville council has endorsed a resolution to support Canadian-made goods and services whenever possible because of the recent announcements regarding proposed U.S. tariffs.
Council agreed unanimously during its Feb. 3 meeting to consider the motion which was added to the agenda without notice, according to a news release by the City of Parksville.
“Canada is well respected throughout the world and the actions of the United States will only serve to unite our country and strengthen our resolve to continue to prosper through trade and economic alliance with the international community,” Mayor Doug O’Brien said in the release.
The motion, moved by Coun. Sean Wood, was passed unanimously and reads as follows:
1. WHEREAS the United States government is proposing to impose tariffs on Canadian imports, including a 25 per cent tariff on all Canadian goods entering the US, except for energy resources, which face a 10 per cent tariff; and
2. WHEREAS these tariffs may negatively impact Canadian businesses, industries, and workers, particularly those engaged in manufacturing, agriculture, forestry, and other export-driven sectors, leading to job losses and economic instability in communities such as Parksville; and
3. WHEREAS supporting Canadian-made goods and services sustains local businesses, protects Canadian jobs, and strengthens the national economy in response to trade restrictions; and
4. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Parksville encourage residents, businesses, and municipal departments to prioritize the purchase of Canadian-made goods and services whenever feasible; and
5. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Parksville commit to prioritizing Canadian-made goods and services in municipal procurement and contracts, provided they meet financial and operational requirements; and
6. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Parksville engage with local business organizations, including the Parksville and District Chamber of Commerce, to promote initiatives supporting Canadian businesses and local employment.
