Environment Minister Terry Duguid confirmed that a government led by Mark Carney will uphold the existing cap on oil and gas production.
In an interview with The Canadian Press, Minister Duguid emphasized Canada’s commitment to meeting energy needs while addressing environmental concerns, stating, “We want the energy but not the pollution that accompanies its production.”
The Liberal government previously introduced draft regulations in November, requiring producers to reduce emissions by approximately one-third within the next eight years. Alongside this measure, a federal cap-and-trade system was proposed but faced criticism from Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and stakeholders within the energy sector.
This week, top executives from Canada’s energy industry urged leaders of the four main federal political parties to acknowledge an energy crisis and abolish the production cap. In contrast, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has publicly opposed the cap, criticizing Carney’s position on social media and vowing to eliminate the restriction if elected.