OTTAWA — Prime Minister Mark Carney says Canada will announce new funding for port infrastructure within the next two weeks, with expansions in Montreal and Manitoba likely among the first projects approved under his government’s new major projects bill.
Speaking from Europe, where he is strengthening trade ties on energy and critical minerals, Carney emphasized that ports are central to Canada’s strategy to expand exports beyond the United States. “There is a lot happening — the number one focus of this government is to build infrastructure,” he said. “Particularly, infrastructure that helps us deepen our partnership with our European partners.”
The Contrecoeur expansion of the Port of Montreal, which would boost container capacity by as much as 40 per cent, is at the top of the list. Carney also flagged what he described as “effectively a new port” in Churchill, Manitoba, where upgrades would allow shipments of liquefied natural gas and critical minerals.
The Port of Churchill, long used for grain exports, has recently diversified, including sending its first critical mineral shipment in more than two decades last year. Investments could unlock Indigenous leadership opportunities, enhance northern sovereignty, and link Prairie resources directly to Europe.
Carney pointed to possible East Coast port projects tied to critical minerals and metals, stressing that Ottawa’s criteria for “national interest” projects include diversification — across regions, markets, and industries.
The funding will flow through Bill C-5, passed in June, which allows Ottawa to fast-track approvals for projects deemed nationally significant. Carney noted the law preserves environmental assessments but allows provinces, such as Quebec, to conduct reviews, cutting duplication.
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew welcomed the signal of support, saying Churchill is well-positioned to serve the European Union. “When our governments work together, including with Indigenous governments, we’re going to be able to build a prosperous future for everybody,” he said, noting new infrastructure would also drive demand for Canadian steel and aluminum.
Chris Avery, president and CEO of the Arctic Gateway Group, which owns the Churchill port and rail line, said his organization is ready. “The Port of Churchill is ready to step up and play a vital role in diversifying Canada’s trade, growing our energy and critical minerals exports, and strengthening sovereignty in the North.”