N.S. premier in Boston for trade talks, tree lighting

Premier Tim Houston Embarks on Business Meetings and Christmas Tree Lighting in Boston

Premier Tim Houston of Nova Scotia is making the most of his first full week in office by attending business meetings and participating in the annual Christmas tree lighting in Boston. After securing a resounding 43-seat majority for his Progressive Conservative Party in last month’s provincial election, Premier Houston is keen on strengthening partnerships with the United States.

During his trip to Boston, Premier Houston met with Bernadette Jordan, Canada’s consul general, to discuss ways to leverage and strengthen partnerships in the U.S. The province also hosted a reception to promote Nova Scotia and its exporters, showcasing the province’s key industries such as tires, seafood, forest products, and plastics, which contribute significantly to the economy.

With Canada and Mexico facing the threat of major tariffs from U.S. president-elect Donald Trump, Premier Houston has been actively engaged in discussions with the country’s premiers and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The premier has yet to publicly comment on the issue of tariffs, but the importance of exports to the U.S. cannot be understated, as one in every 16 jobs in Nova Scotia depends on these exports.

Accompanied by a delegation from Nova Scotia, including his chief of staff, MLA Greg Morrow, and executive deputy minister Tracey Taweel, Premier Houston is expected to return to the province on Saturday. The delegation also includes representatives from various Nova Scotia industries, such as distilleries, chocolate companies, and the Christmas Tree Council of Nova Scotia.

Upon his return, Premier Houston faces a busy week, with the swearing-in ceremony for MLAs and the new Progressive Conservative cabinet. Additionally, the premier has yet to comment on the federal government’s GST holiday, which is set to begin on December 14. While some provinces have expressed concerns about losing revenue during the holiday, others have shown support for the initiative.

As Premier Houston continues to navigate his new mandate, his focus on strengthening partnerships, promoting exports, and addressing key economic issues remains a top priority for Nova Scotia’s future prosperity.