Peter MacKay, a former Nova Scotia MP who served in Stephen Harper’s cabinet, says Prime Minister Mark Carney needs to bring some relief to Canadian sectors feeling the brunt of tariffs following his meeting with President Donald Trump on Tuesday. “The rubber hits the road when it comes to tariffs,” MacKay told CTV News Atlantic’s Bruce Frisko. “These tariffs are starting to bite the Canadian economy.” On Tuesday, Carney and Trump met in person at the White House for the second time since Carney was elected prime minster. They discussed the ongoing tariff and trade issues between Canada and the United States, with Trump mentioning a “merger” with the two countries. “It was a very jovial discussion,” MacKay said. “That personal rapport is important. “We’re waiting to see the tangible results of these meetings. There’s a lot of behind-the-scenes discussions.” MacKay noted Carney was elected, at least in part, based on a perception he could best handle negotiations with Trump. He noted Carney needs to bring relief to Canadian businesses like the auto sector following this meeting. “We can never decouple ourselves from the United States, so it’s a fine line to walk,” MacKay said. “It’s a very delicate dance we have with the U.S. The prime minister is looking to thread multiple needles in a hurricane. “We need the prime minister to succeed. This is about the Canadian economy and how we may end up in a recession in the new year.” -With files from CTV News’ Spencer Van Dyk
