Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew says the province has a moral obligation to prepare for the humanitarian aspect of what a second Donald Trump presidency in the U.S. could mean for the southern part of the province. That's one of the considerations included in his government's beefed-up border security plan ahead of January 20th, noting mass deportations was an election promise reiterated many times by Donald Trump.
"What happens if there are mass deportations as a Day One action of an incoming Trump Administration? What is going to happen if people voluntarily leave the United States of America in advance of a potential step like that?"
"I've spoken to people in southern Manitoba who are very worried. (They are) good-hearted Manitobans who don't want to see people outdoors in weather like this. So, we're getting ready from that perspective," said Kinew.
The Premier made the comment Thursday after he updated the Prime Minister and his fellow First Ministers on Manitoba's border plan, which includes investing in overtime with the RCMP, additional motor carrier enforcement on roads and highways connected to the international border, and the use of conservation officers and their technology to act an extra set of eyes and ears.
"The Trump Administration has made it clear that border security is being taken seriously in Canada and so, we're responding on that level as well."
According to Kinew, there was also talk of measures to further crack down on the movement of fentanyl through the border. While he says his government supports this and increased border security, Kinew noted there were a few gaps in the federal government's plans.
"We're making a list. We're checking it twice."
Retaliatory tariffs were also discussed as part of Canada's potential response to Trump's tariff threats.
The Premier confirmed reports that some of his provincial and territorial counterparts have begun forming lists of potential retaliatory measures. But what about Manitoba?
"We're making a list. We're checking it twice. We'll be ready for January 20th," he said, noting his government is taking these threats seriously. "Because we have to protect your jobs."
"For Manitoba's perspective, we do have to prepare," added Kinew. "If there is a Canadian response - how are we going to stand up for the ag industry? How are we going to stand up for our energy industry and the manufacturing industry here in Manitoba?"
He wouldn't release details of what's on Manitoba's list just yet.
Meantime, Kinew says some believe retaliation won't work, and noted that is also a part of the conversation happening within his government.
Additionally, the Premier says he requested the federal government's assistance in Manitoba's plan to stand up a permanent trade office in Washington, DC.