The province unveiled more measures yesterday to shield Newfoundlanders and Labradorians from the new uncertainty over U.S. markets and tariffs.

Premier John Hogan told a news conference at The Rooms that it’s all about promoting internal trade across Canada, following last month’s first ministers’ meeting.

The Fair Registration Practices Act is designed to improve foreign recognition and labour mobility for many key careers in the province, helping qualified people get licensed quicker.

There’s also a new Workforce Relief Fund to help businesses affected by tariffs, with up to $250,000 per organization available from the $5-million fund.

Hogan says unlike other provinces, Newfoundland and Labrador took a more pensive approach to all the trade talk.

“Some provinces rushed to tear down all their barriers as quickly as possible, but here, not surprisingly, in unique Newfoundland and Labrador, we took the time to be thoughtful and to act with purpose,” he said. “We engaged with all of you, our local stakeholders, other provinces and territories, and identified ways we can work together to promote interprovincial trade in ways that benefit Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”

Meanwhile, another key component of yesterday’s internal trade announcement is an MOU between all provinces for so-called direct-to-customer sales of alcohol.

The MOU, which is expected to be fomalized by next spring, would allow anyone to order their favourite beer, wine or spirit to be shipped anywhere in the country.

But it’s only for personal consumption, and does not include sales involving wholesalers, retailers, or other licensees.

Coady ackowledged only “a small number of people” will likely avail of the opportunity.

“But we wanted to make sure that we were in step with the rest of the provinces,” she said. “We reviewed the MOU, spoke with local unions, and to be quite frank we think there are enough protections in the MOU, so that people who want to order individually from other provinces, can do so.”