VICTORIA — B.C.'s premier says he supports the federal government's decision to impose a 35 per cent tariff on Russian and Belarusian exports to Canada. 

John Horgan says the Finance Ministry is looking into the potential consequences for the private sector, including for major construction projects that rely on Russian steel, to determine what the province can do to protect its economy while ensuring sanctions continue. 

He says B.C. is also ready to welcome Ukrainian immigrants and refugees but is unsure how many people the federal government will send to the province.

Horgan says Municipal Affairs Minister Nathan Cullen began contacting non-governmental organizations and faith groups that often help refugees settle into communities after federal Immigration Minister Sean Fraser streamlined the process for Ukrainians fleeing Russia’s military assault.

Horgan says the province fully supports the accelerated immigration and refugee plans, but an extraordinary number of people moved to B.C. last year so he will be working to ensure the province doesn't take in more people than it can handle.

This story by The Canadian Press was first published on March 3, 2022.

The Canadian Press

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