At the Premiers meeting in Winnipeg, British Columbia’s Premier said housing and cost of living are top priority discussions. David Eby noted that the rising costs are making it difficult for many families to make ends meet. “Like other Premiers around the table, I have a real sense of dread about the next Bank of Canada rate hike. I think there is a strong argument to make that the rate increase are having an effect, but it seems to be having an effect on the people who can least afford it.”

Ontario’s Premier Doug Ford told reporters in Winnipeg that he encourages the federal government to open up the ports in B.C. where workers have been on strike since July 1st. He says it costs Ontario about $160 million a day, not being able to get product to market and affecting the supply chain.

A news release from Canada’s Premiers says all Canadians deserve access to affordable housing and other necessities, timely health services, safe and resilient communities, and good jobs. Other topics of discussion included building a strong labour force with more skilled workers, enhancing public safety through investments in mental health and addictions and combating gang activities through both prevention and intervention.

The Premiers are calling for federal action and partnership when it comes to strengthening borders and ports and providing funding for gun and gang violence prevention. The federal government has committed to engaging the provinces and territories on the future of the RCMP and the release from the Premiers states that this is needed now to address chronic RCMP recruitment challenges and staffing shortages, and effectively plan for community policing.

The Premiers continue their discussions on Wednesday.