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collaboration

Wednesday June 4, 2025

June 4, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

The recent premiers' meeting in Saskatoon marks a hopeful shift in federal-provincial relations, with renewed collaboration and shared goals under Prime Minister Mark Carney.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday June 4, 2025

From Santa Carney to the Provinces: Canada’s New Unity

A distracted and weakened federal government has created a leadership vacuum, forcing the provinces to step up in addressing the existential challenges posed by a potential second Trump presidency.

December 18, 2024

The recent premiers’ meeting in Saskatoon has ushered in a refreshing wave of optimism and collaboration that Canada hasn’t experienced in over a decade. With the transition from Justin Trudeau to Mark Carney as Prime Minister, there’s been a noticeable shift in the dynamics between federal and provincial leaders. Ontario Premier Doug Ford captured the positive spirit of the gathering by likening Carney to Santa Claus, with a sled full of possibilities, ready to consider options that could benefit the entire nation.

News: Premiers express optimism after pitching major projects to Carney

Mark Carney's new cabinet reflects a strategic blend of experienced leaders and fresh faces, navigating the complex transition of Canadian governance.

May 13 2025

Under Trudeau, the relationship between the federal government and provincial leaders, especially those from the Western provinces, was often fraught with tension. The interim period following his resignation only added to the uncertainty and lack of direction. However, Carney’s approach seems to have brought a new sense of unity and hope, with a focus on “nation-building projects” that aim to foster economic growth and national cohesion.

The meeting was marked by a commitment from Carney to fast-track approvals for projects deemed in the national interest, while keeping the door open for new ideas and initiatives. Key discussions covered areas such as trade, energy infrastructure, and critical minerals, laying the groundwork for potential progress.

News: ’Love is in the air’: Cautious optimism as premiers pitch major projects to Carney

September 28, 2019

Yet, challenges remain on the horizon. The proposal to build a pipeline through northern B.C. remains a contentious issue, as regional priorities differ. Alberta is pushing for new pipelines as part of its energy strategy, while B.C. emphasizes shovel-ready projects that are immediately actionable. Additionally, First Nations have expressed concerns about potential rights violations in the forthcoming “one Canadian economy” legislation, highlighting the need for meaningful engagement and dialogue.

Ford’s analogy serves as a reminder that while Carney can guide and support these initiatives, the real work lies with the premiers. They must collaborate and address the regulatory and infrastructure barriers that currently impede progress. Removing interprovincial trade barriers and boosting the economy will require technical expertise, political will, and cooperation across all levels of government.

Opinion: It’s easy to announce the end of internal trade barriers. Eliminating them is harder

Prime Minister Mark Carney navigates internal separatist tensions and external U.S. relations to unify Canada and strengthen federalism.

May 13 2025

This meeting in Saskatoon marks a hopeful shift in the relationship between the federal and provincial governments. While the federal government under Carney provides a vision and framework, it’s evident that the provinces will play a crucial role in executing these plans. The path forward will involve navigating challenges and differences, but the foundation for future cooperation seems more promising than it has in years. Both federal and provincial leaders have an opportunity to work together towards meaningful progress, making the potential for a stronger and more cohesive Canada more attainable than it has been in a long time.


Premiers in Portrait

Wednesday June 4, 2025 – The recent premiers’ meeting in Saskatoon marks a hopeful shift in federal-provincial relations, with renewed collaboration and shared goals under Prime Minister Mark Carney.

The premiers’ gathering in Saskatoon has brought a fresh sense of hope and teamwork to Canadian politics, a welcome change from the tensions of the Trudeau era. With Mark Carney leading, federal and provincial leaders talked about big projects to boost the economy and unite the country. While challenges like pipeline disagreements and Indigenous rights remain, the meeting set a positive tone for cooperation. With everyone on board, real progress finally seems possible.

Let’s hope this isn’t just the usual burst of optimism that comes with a new government. We’ve been here before, where initial excitement fades and things return to normal. The real test will be whether Carney and his team can turn this positive energy into real actions and lasting change. Fingers crossed that this time, the momentum leads to real progress.

There’s some talk of the Premiers building up Carney as a kind of folk hero, ready to work wonders. Doug Ford’s comparison of the PM to Santa Claus plays into this idea and is the focus of today’s editorial cartoon.

Speaking of editorial cartoons, here’s how I approach drawing the Premiers. When I started as a cartoonist, I learned quickly that respect in this field means getting good at drawing group caricatures. As a kid, I drew funny classroom portraits, which made me popular and even helped me stand up to bullies. Drawing caricatures gave me a unique advantage.

As I got older and became interested in the news, I naturally gravitated toward satire. The patience I learned from those classroom scenes paid off when I saw professional cartoonists create group caricatures. These weren’t the usual amusement park portraits; they captured powerful people from all angles. I studied these cartoons closely and kept clippings in a journal. One of my favourites is by Tony Jenkins from the Globe & Mail, who cleverly mixed the 20th anniversary of “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” with a meeting of Canadian Premiers. Jenkins turned unrelated news into a timeless classic, and he’s still a great cartoonist and friend.

Jenkins and others taught me early on that to succeed in editorial cartooning here, you must be able to draw the Premiers. I see it as a personal challenge to sketch a group shot of them occasionally, keeping my skills sharp. Here’s a look back at some of my past Premier group portraits:

Sketch studies of premiers (c1995) Pat Binns, Russell MacLellen, Frank McKenna, Glen Clark, Brian Tobin, Lucien Bouchard, Mike Harris, Ralph Klein.

Fathers of Confederation – illustrated in 1995. I’ve drawn various renditions of the premiers cast in this classic portrait, here in 2006, and  here in 2014.

Friday October 14, 2005 – The Alberta government announced a $10 million plan to distribute $400 cheques to residents as part of a $1.4-billion “resource rebate” initiative, funded by the province’s surplus from oil and natural-gas royalties.

Sunday June 17, 2007 – On occasion of Father’s Day, Prime Minister Harper’s aggressive tactics in the past federal-provincial dispute over the Atlantic Accord and equalization payments overshadowed the facts, with Nova Scotia’s demands to remove the fiscal capacity cap being seen as unreasonable and unfair.

Thursday November 22, 2012 – Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty and other premiers criticized Prime Minister Stephen Harper for not attending a meeting to collaborate on a national economic strategy, viewing it as a missed opportunity to build on past federal-provincial cooperation during economic challenges. McGuinty had recently announced his departure from public life.

Wednesday October 12, 2016 – the federal government under Justin Trudeau announced a carbon pricing plan starting at $10 per tonne in 2018, rising to $50 by 2022, to reduce emissions and meet climate commitments, which provoked backlash from several provinces.

Thursday, July 25, 2013 – Kathleen Wynne chaired a historic Council of the Federation conference in July 2013, where women led the majority of Canada’s largest provinces, marking a shift from the traditional male-dominated leadership and focusing on collaborative discussions on national issues. In this cartoon I simply had to imagine what a carriage load of first husbands looked like.

Tuesday November 24, 2015 – Ahead of the Paris climate talks, Justin Trudeau and premiers aim to unify Canada’s climate message, balancing existing provincial leadership and economic growth with national climate commitments.

Tuesday February 7, 2023 – Justin Trudeau’s Liberals were struggling to regain momentum and hoped a health care deal would help them reset their agenda and address Canadians’ concerns.

This has been posted to Substack, which you can subscribe to. Substack is a great platform for me as a cartoonist. I’m mindful of the layoffs hitting many talented people, but I’m keeping a positive outlook. Take a look at the animation of my June 4, 2025, cartoon, and thanks for your support!

Posted in: Canada, Substack Post Tagged: Canada, collaboration, Danielle Smith, David Eby, Doug Ford, federal, federalism, Francois Legault, growth, indigenous, John Hogan, Mark Carney, meeting, optimism, P.J. Akeeagok, pipeline, Premiers, provinces, R. J. Simpson, Ranj Pillai, Rob Lantz, Sanda Claus, Saskatoon, Scott Moe, Susan Holt, Tim Houston, Trade, unity, Wab Kinew

Wednesday April 16, 2025

April 16, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Ontario faces the dual challenge of countering U.S. tariffs while addressing internal issues in healthcare, housing, and social services, amid the Speech from the Throne.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday April 16, 2025

Ontario’s Balancing Act and Tariffs and Turmoil

Doug Ford and Mark Carney's collaborative relationship offers a pragmatic approach to tackling Canada's economic challenges, contrasting with Pierre Poilievre's divisive style.

March 26, 2025

Ontario’s government has delivered the Speech from the Throne, marking a pivotal moment in the province’s journey through complex domestic and international challenges. Premier Doug Ford’s administration has laid out its agenda, highlighting efforts to counter U.S. tariffs and address pressing internal issues.

In the speech, the government pledged to remove barriers to interprovincial trade and expedite approvals for new mines in the Northern Ring of Fire region, emphasizing its strategic importance to Ontario’s economy and security. This move reflects a commitment to economic resilience and a response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade policies, underscoring that “Canada will never be the 51st state.”

The Throne Speech also reaffirmed Ontario’s dedication to the electric vehicle and battery industry, securing significant investments and maintaining a leadership role in North America. Despite critiques of substantial subsidies from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, the province remains committed to supporting this vital sector.

News: Trump and Ontario’s tariff response likely to dominate Ford’s throne speech

Canada finds itself compelled to retaliate against Trump's aggressive tariffs on steel and aluminum, with Doug Ford leading the charge, as the nation seeks to protect its economic interests.

March 12, 2025

Domestically, the speech addressed the need for immediate action in healthcare, housing, and social services. Ford’s administration recognizes the urgency of reducing wait times, improving housing affordability, and tackling social issues such as homelessness, poverty, mental health, and drug addiction.

The ambitious infrastructure plan, including a new tunnel expressway under Highway 401, is part of a broader $200-billion initiative to enhance transit and economic efficiency in Ontario, despite potential high costs.
The Ontario government’s resolve to navigate both international pressures and domestic challenges is evident. The Speech from the Throne serves as a comprehensive blueprint for strengthening the social fabric of the province, ensuring economic stability, and improving the quality of life for Ontarians.

As the government implements these plans, Premier Ford’s leadership will be measured by his ability to protect Ontario’s interests on the global stage while delivering tangible improvements to the lives of its citizens. The path forward requires a careful balance of diplomacy, innovation, and investment, with Ontarians keenly observing the government’s actions in this critical period.


Shopping for Thrones

Donald Trump seems to have quite the royal flair, doesn’t he? His foray into politics comes complete with all the pomp and circumstance you’d expect from a would-be king. From turning rallies into theatrical spectacles to ceremonies that have you wondering if a crown might appear, he’s certainly not shy about projecting a larger-than-life image.

His leadership style, marked by attempts to expand his power and tweak the rules, draws cheers from his fans who love the break from tradition. Meanwhile, critics are left clutching their pearls, worried about the potential for a royal takeover.

Trump’s fascination with all things regal seems like both a play for power and a personal love affair with the grandeur of monarchy. As his influence lingers, his royal tendencies keep everyone talking.

In my editorial cartoon for Wednesday, I poke a bit of fun at this ongoing dialogue about Trump’s king-like ambitions—a theme I can’t help but revisit. Today’s Speech From The Throne in Ontario consumed by the threat of Trump tariffs seemed like an apt occasion to put him in the scene.

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for April 16, 2025, below! If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I share weekly editorial cartoons every Saturday morning. Substack is a crucial platform for me amidst the uncertainties of being a staff cartoonist, especially given recent layoffs and newspaper closures affecting our field. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will remain free. Thank you for your support! This “note” helps craft my weekly posts and showcases animated versions of my cartoons. Enjoy!

April 16, 2025 | Shopping For Thrones   https://youtu.be/N3Jjxg8R21g

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Posted in: Ontario Tagged: 2025-08, collaboration, Donald Trump, Doug Ford, Economy, Edith Dumont, homelessness, infrastructure, mental health, not for sale, Ontario, Poverty, Queen's Park, resilience, Social services, Speech from the Throne, strategy, Substack, tariffs, throne

Wednesday March 26, 2025

March 26, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Doug Ford and Mark Carney's collaborative relationship offers a pragmatic approach to tackling Canada's economic challenges, contrasting with Pierre Poilievre's divisive style.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday March 26, 2025

Ford and Carney: A Pragmatic Duo Navigates Canada’s Challenges

Series: Young Doug Ford

The evolving relationship between Doug Ford and Mark Carney, juxtaposed with the distant rapport Ford shares with Pierre Poilievre, offers a compelling narrative about leadership, pragmatism, and the future of Canadian politics.

Doug Ford, despite his past controversies, has shown a remarkable ability to adapt and work across party lines. His recent collaboration with Mark Carney is a testament to his pragmatic approach. Carney, with his extensive background in economics and leadership, brings a wealth of expertise that complements Ford’s political acumen. Together, they provide a balanced and strategic front against external challenges, particularly in light of Trump’s tariff wars.

News: Insiders say Pierre Poilievre called Doug Ford for ‘advice’ — but the premier said he’ll be ‘staying out’ of the election

Doug Ford's evolution from a controversial provincial leader to a national unifier fills a leadership void left not just by Justin Trudeau, but also Pierre Poilievre, as Canada faces economic challenges similar to the COVID-19 pandemic, while dealing with his lingering past controversies.

January 15, 2025

Their partnership is not just about political convenience; it’s about safeguarding Canadian interests. Ford’s decision to meet with Carney at Wally’s Grill symbolizes a willingness to engage with leaders who share a vision for
In contrast, Pierre Poilievre’s relationship with Ford appears strained and distant. Despite reaching out for advice, Poilievre’s late congratulatory call to Ford and the lack of personal rapport highlight a disconnect. Ford’s focus on governing Ontario and his refusal to engage in federal campaigning further underscores his commitment to provincial priorities.

Poilievre’s rigid stance and divisive rhetoric, reminiscent of American-style politics, seem out of sync with Ford’s centrist approach. This contrast is not lost on voters, many of whom express concerns about Poilievre’s ability to unite and lead effectively.

Opinion: For Doug Ford, Mark Carney will always be a better partner than Pierre Poilievre

April 28, 2023

Reader comments reflect a broader sentiment: Ford, despite his flaws, is viewed as a leader willing to listen and adapt, while Poilievre is seen as rigid and confrontational. Ford’s willingness to collaborate with leaders like Carney, regardless of political affiliation, resonates with Canadians who value cooperation and stability.

In a time of economic uncertainty and external threats, the Ford-Carney alliance offers a reassuring path forward. Their combined leadership exemplifies the power of collaboration and pragmatic governance, positioning Canada to navigate challenges with resilience and foresight.

As Canadians consider their political landscape, the contrast between Ford’s adaptable leadership and Poilievre’s divisive approach becomes increasingly evident. The Ford-Carney partnership stands as a beacon of hope, emphasizing that effective leadership transcends party lines and prioritizes the nation’s well-being.


Picking a Topic

Drawing an editorial cartoon is like putting together a puzzle with a thousand tiny pieces. The hardest part is picking the right topic, especially since my audience is spread across Ontario from Kitchener to Niagara Falls. Today, there were lots of news bites to chew on. The Trump officials’ chat was juicy but already covered by U.S. folks. The TVA debate fee and the India interference story seemed either too niche or not cooked enough yet.

What really caught my eye was the budding bromance between Mark Carney and Doug Ford. Their recent get-togethers offered a perfect chance for some light-hearted fun, especially with a classic CNE setting. I decided to use the “Polar Express” ride to play on Carney’s name and toss in a bit of nostalgia with a young Doug Ford and friends having a blast.

In the cartoon, young Pierre Poilievre looks puzzled in his nerdy “Spirit of 76” shirt, while Carney, as the ride operator, has him talking to the hand. Ford’s on the ride, waving and cheering, while Pierre wonders why he’s left out. The Bulova Tower sneaks into the background, adding that authentic CNE vibe.

This piece is all about mixing humour with a bit of satire, poking fun at political dynamics in a playful way. It feels good to see the idea come to life and hopefully give readers across Ontario a chuckle. Here’s the animated version – Enjoy!

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Posted in: Canada, Ontario Tagged: 2025-06, Canada, challenges, CNE, collaboration, Doug Ford, Economy, governance, leadership, Mark Carney, Ontario, Pierre Poilievre, Polar Express, politics, pragmatism, Substack, Trade, YDF, Young Doug Ford

Tuesday March 11, 2025

March 11, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

As Canada faces economic threats from Trump's administration, the nation must choose between Mark Carney's economic expertise and Pierre Poilievre's populist appeal to lead with unity and resilience.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator –Tuesday March 11, 2025

Carney vs. Populism: Canada’s Crucial Leadership Choice

The Canadian Liberal leadership race, featuring candidates like Mark Carney, seeks to address economic challenges posed by Donald Trump's tariffs and define the nation's future direction.

March 7, 2025

As Canada faces a critical moment, the upcoming election is an important decision for the nation. The biggest challenge is dealing with Donald Trump’s aggressive economic policies, which aim to weaken Canada with tariffs and even suggest annexation. Canadians need to carefully consider the two leading candidates for prime minister: Mark Carney and Pierre Poilievre.

Mark Carney, elected as the Liberal Party leader just yesterday, is new to politics but brings valuable economic experience. As a former head of both the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, Carney knows how to handle economic challenges, especially with the U.S. pushing hard. His recent speech emphasized Canada’s independence and determination to stand strong, reflecting the national desire to protect our way of life. Carney’s international experience could help Canada build stronger economic ties beyond the U.S.

News: Poilievre and Carney are poised to recreate a legendary Canadian rivalry

Mark Carney's pragmatic approach gains momentum against Pierre Poilievre's faltering rhetoric, reshaping Canada's political landscape.

February 20, 2025

In contrast, Pierre Poilievre’s approach focuses on populism, using strong rhetoric to rally support. He’s good at connecting with people who feel left out, but there are doubts about his economic skills and how he plans to deal with the challenges from Trump’s administration. Poilievre’s style could energize his supporters but might also divide the country when unity is crucial.

The main challenge for Canada is figuring out how to deal with these tough economic times while keeping the country united. Carney’s approach, focusing on working together and making thoughtful decisions, seems promising. His ability to bring people together and work with others is a big plus in uncertain times.

Editorial: For Mark Carney, now comes the hard part

While both Trump and Poilievre use populist slogans and insults to galvanize supporters, Poilievre has thus far avoided Trump’s more extreme policies, opting to focus his populist messaging on economic concerns.

November 9 2024

As Canadians get ready to vote, it’s important to think beyond party lines and focus on what’s best for the country’s future. The threat from Trump’s policies is something that affects everyone, regardless of politics. In choosing between Carney and Poilievre, Canadians need to consider whether they want a leader with strong economic skills or one who relies on populist appeal.

Ultimately, Canada needs a leader who can inspire confidence, bring people together, and guide the country through these challenges with wisdom. Mark Carney, with his economic know-how and focus on collaboration, might just be the leader Canada needs to stay strong and independent.


As an editorial cartoonist, I try to separate my instincts from the real issues facing our country. Still, I believe Mark Carney is the right choice for Prime Minister. To me, Pierre Poilievre seems like a showman who appeals to a far-right audience that doesn’t reflect Canada’s social values.

Poilievre reminds me of Trump—he denies climate change, rejects working with other countries, flirts with conspiracy theories, and dislikes the media. Canadians have rejected this kind of social conservatism in past elections.

While I’m always cautious about putting too much faith in any leader, Carney’s recent strong support from delegates raises high expectations. He has an impressive background and now, as Prime Minister designate, he must represent all Canadians, not just his party. He needs to unify the nation and assure Conservative voters that he’s the right choice for moving forward.

Carney must also be different from Justin Trudeau, who was often seen as divisive, partly due to Poilievre’s constant criticism. Poilievre’s attempts to appeal to everyone may not convince Canadians he’s the leader to stand up to Trump and defend Canada. Carney, however, has the chance to be a unifying figure.

The cartoon I created reflects this political scene, with the “Captain Canada” superhero suit symbolizing leadership. It humorously highlights the need for a leader who represents the whole country.

Canada is at a crucial point, facing economic challenges and Trump’s tough trade policies. Carney’s strong economic background offers a fresh perspective to guide us toward stability. The upcoming election will show whether Canadians choose economic expertise and collaboration or populist rhetoric. A unifying leader is essential to navigate these challenging times and protect our nation.

Here’s the animated making-of clip of my March 11, 2025 editorial cartoon. I have a huge collection of these on my channel through the YouTube link below.

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Posted in: Canada Tagged: 2025-05, Canada, collaboration, Donald Trump, Economy, election, governance, Independence, leadership, Mark Carney, Pierre Poilievre, populism, resilience, sovereignty, Substack, tariffs, unity

Thursday February 6, 2025

February 6, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Canada's leaders at all levels must seize the opportunity to dismantle interprovincial trade barriers, strengthening the economy and ensuring resilience against global trade uncertainties.

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Thursday February 6, 2025 (Also, The Toronto Star)

Breaking Down Barriers: A Call to Action for Canada’s Internal Trade

A distracted and weakened federal government has created a leadership vacuum, forcing the provinces to step up in addressing the existential challenges posed by a potential second Trump presidency.

December 18, 2024

With U.S. tariffs looming large on the horizon, Canada stands at a critical juncture. The temporary reprieve from these trade threats offers a golden opportunity to strengthen our domestic economy by dismantling the interprovincial trade barriers that have long hindered our growth. Now, more than ever, all levels of Canadian government must turn political rhetoric into tangible action.

Transport and Internal Trade Minister Anita Anand and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre both recognize the crucial need to boost internal trade. Anand is making strides by promoting mutual recognition of regulations and enhancing labor mobility across provinces. Meanwhile, Poilievre has proposed a “free trade bonus” to incentivize provinces to eliminate trade barriers, promising financial rewards based on the economic benefits of deregulation.
The potential rewards are significant. Studies suggest that removing these barriers could add up to $200 billion annually to Canada’s GDP, translating into substantial savings for Canadian families and a stronger, more resilient economy. Deloitte’s report even estimates that families could save over $6,000 each year by reducing these barriers.

News: Interprovincial trade barriers: what they are, why they exist and how to cut them

Alberta must balance its oil interests with national unity, aligning with other provinces to strengthen Canada's position against potential U.S. tariffs.

January 17, 2025

However, the path forward is fraught with challenges. The Canadian Free Trade Agreement remains bogged down with exceptions that prevent the free flow of goods like alcohol and cannabis. Furthermore, some provinces and industries benefit from these barriers and may resist change. Public comments often highlight skepticism about provinces like Quebec and Ontario, which have been slow to embrace free trade ideals.

To overcome these obstacles, a unified, bipartisan effort is essential. Provinces must put aside regional protectionism and collaborate with the federal government to standardize regulations and enhance labor mobility. This includes addressing professional licensing standards, as suggested by Poilievre’s proposed “Blue Seal” certification, and ensuring that procurement and transportation rules are consistent across the country.

Beyond economic benefits, breaking down these barriers will make Canada more resilient against global market changes and reduce costs for consumers. By fostering a more integrated national market, we can enhance our competitiveness and create a more dynamic business environment.

News: Canada can do ‘substantial’ work fast on internal trade, minister says

Doug Ford's call for a mandate to address potential U.S. tariffs distracts from his government's pressing domestic issues and highlights the necessity for Canada to diversify trade relations and reduce interprovincial barriers.

January 24, 2025

As we approach provincial elections, it’s crucial for candidates to prioritize these issues. For too long, interprovincial trade barriers have been a topic of discussion without meaningful action. Voters should demand more than just promises; they should insist on concrete plans and timelines for change. Provincial leaders need to commit to working collaboratively with the federal government to streamline regulations and improve trade and labor mobility across the country.

Voters must hold candidates accountable, challenging them to pledge specific measures and deadlines for reducing these barriers. By prioritizing action over rhetoric, we can transform longstanding challenges into opportunities for economic growth and stability.

Comment: We’ll believe Ontario is ‘Team Canada’ on interprovincial trade when we see it

Now is the time for decisive action. The passion and urgency generated by external threats should fuel our commitment to dismantle internal barriers. By doing so, we can turn a moment of uncertainty into an opportunity for lasting growth and stability. Canada must seize this chance to fortify its economy from within, ensuring that we not only weather global market shifts but thrive in their wake. It’s time for provinces to step up and deliver real progress, ensuring that Canada is not only prepared for global market shifts but also thriving from within.


I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: the talk of removing interprovincial trade barriers may seem dull, but it’s crucial for the provinces to work on this for the benefit of consumers and the strength of our country. For too long, provincial premiers have maintained bureaucratic and protectionist barriers that offer no benefit to consumers, making it easier for Canadian businesses to trade with foreign countries than within their own nation. It’s absurd, and it demands hard work, time, negotiation, and a commitment to cutting through the red tape. In Ontario, there’s even a minister of red tape reduction, and this issue should be at the top of their agenda. With the current economic tensions, including a 30 day “ceasefire,” mere tears, booing national anthems and other theatrics simply won’t suffice. We need real action, and especially in the midst of a provincial elections, politicians should focus on eliminating these barriers when they aren’t kissing babies. All provincial leaders must prioritize this issue—it’s the one thing they can truly address. It may not be a sexy issue, and it won’t grab headlines when a small business gains more economic freedom, but dismantling interprovincial trade barriers is essential. It requires hard work, and this is precisely what we expect from our politicians, especially in times of crisis. Voters need to demand this every day of the election campaign, and it must become a pledged commitment by all leaders. Let’s push for meaningful change where it counts!

Please check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for February 6, 2025, below! If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I release my post every Saturday morning summarizing the week through my editorial cartoons. What you’re reading here is a “note,” designed to help craft my weekly posts and display the animated versions of my daily cartoons. Enjoy!

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Posted in: Ontario Tagged: 2025-03, barriers, Bonnie Crombie, Canada, collaboration, Doug Ford, Economy, elections, growth, Marit Stiles, Ontario, OntElection2025, provinces, regulation, resilience, Substack, Trade, walls
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