The premier is urging continued vigilance now that U.S. threats of tariffs against Canada have been paused for 30 days.

The US President backed off threats to impose punishing tariffs on Canadian goods after Canada came back with a commitment to dedicate 10,000 personnel to watch the border and develop a so-called “drug-czar.”

That’s despite the fact that less than 1 per cent of the fentanyl on American streets comes through Canada.

Premier Andrew Furey says strengthening the border is good for both countries and Canadians should never see what has happened as “kissing the ring.”

The threat of tariffs on Canada and Mexico is on hold for now, but Furey doesn’t believe that the threat is over. He offered assurance on Your VOCM Mornings that the provincial government would be there for affected industries should tariffs be imposed, but he warned Canadians to show resolve in response to Donald Trump’s recent “51st state,” pronouncements.

“I take it as an assault and an insult to who we are as Canadians,” says Furey, “and we need to make sure that we stand up to this bully, because today he’s coming for our lunch money, but tomorrow he’s coming for our house.”