One idea for economic renewal should be tossed aside as futile: removing so-called interprovincial trade barriers. This is a false solution aimed at deregulation and boosting corporate profits, rather than securing new investment and protecting jobs in this country.

What business labels “trade barriers” are often government protections for nascent local industries and manufacturers, and safeguards for workers and consumers. As studies point out, the costs of mutual recognition of public protection and licensing requirements are likely to fall disproportionately on workers. We ought to pull together for the fight ahead, not pick fights with unions.