One Atlantic region economy needed to save ‘burning platform,’ ex-N.B. premier says

Former New Brunswick Premier Frank McKenna suggests there is sufficient political will to establish a single Atlantic Canada economy that could rescue the region, which he refers to as a "burning platform." McKenna made these remarks as a coalition of prominent business figures unveiled a 181-page report advocating for a substantial economic overhaul on Friday.

According to the Atlantic Economic Panel, the four provinces could emerge as one of Canada's wealthiest regions by pooling their abundant talent and resources into a unified economy. However, the panel emphasizes that the report's value hinges on the cooperation of provincial governments, businesses, and residents in implementing its recommendations.

McKenna, also a former ambassador to the United States, asserts that the premiers should be driven to act due to ongoing provincial budget deficits and the adverse effects of the Canada-U.S. trade conflict. He also notes that the provinces have received the "rhetorical baton" with the report and must now follow through by putting the suggested changes into practice.