OTTAWA — The federal Liberal government has introduced new legislation aimed at accelerating the approval process for major infrastructure and energy projects deemed vital to Canada’s national interest.
Bill C-5, titled the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act and the Building Canada Act, was tabled Friday by Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Dominic LeBlanc. The proposed law would allow the federal cabinet to designate key projects for priority approval and streamline the often lengthy and complex regulatory process.
Prime Minister Mark Carney, speaking at a news conference on Parliament Hill, emphasized the urgency of the bill, citing ongoing economic challenges and trade tensions with the United States.
“We’re in an economic crisis,” said Carney. “The best way to respond is to build strength at home.”
The bill includes a twin mandate: to cut red tape for large-scale projects and reduce internal trade barriers between provinces. It was a cornerstone promise of Carney’s election campaign, especially his pledge to position Canada as an energy superpower.
Under the proposed legislation:
- A new federal review office would be created to lead the fast-tracking process.
- The intergovernmental affairs minister would have final permitting authority.
- A project must meet five criteria to be considered in the “national interest,” including economic benefits, environmental responsibility, Indigenous engagement, and resilience.
The legislation requires meaningful consultation with Indigenous Peoples and includes an Indigenous Advisory Council representing First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities.
The bill also features a five-year sunset clause, meaning the legislation and any project listings must be re-evaluated or renewed by Parliament after that period.
Mixed Reactions
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre called the bill a small but overdue step, arguing that Liberal policies have long hindered national development.
“We don’t need baby steps. We need breakthroughs,” he said, calling for the repeal of the oil tanker ban, the scrapping of the emissions cap, and the overhaul of environmental review laws.
From the industry side, Lisa Baiton, CEO of the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers, welcomed the bill, saying it shows Ottawa’s willingness to collaborate with provinces.
In contrast, Greenpeace Canada’s Keith Stewart denounced the move, calling it “a slap in the face” to Canadians battling climate change impacts like wildfires.
“We should be fast-tracking climate solutions, not fossil fuels,” he said.
The government aims to get the bill passed before summer recess, but with only two weeks left in the session and a minority government, Carney will need cross-party support.
The legislation does not override or replace provincial approval processes, which remain a key factor in getting any major project off the ground.