Debt reduction will be the focus
Loonie down half a cent after Poloz comments
Trade protectionism remains a key risk that would negatively affect confidence, investment and jobs
The Canadian dollar rose following news of the tariff exemption and a positive jobs report for February
U.S. stock markets also rose on the news
The seasonally adjusted annual rate increased to 229,737 units whereas economists had been expecting 216,600
StatsCan reports that imports fell by 4.3% in January while exports fell by 2.1% as seven of 11 sectors dropped
Plans to impose tariffs on steel and aluminum imports face significant opposition
The $17-million alleged scheme has resulted in charges of fraud, conspiracy, forgery and money laundering