Fredericton — Prime Minister Mark Carney says the next round of projects to be referred to Canada’s Major Projects Office for review will be announced on Thursday, marking the second phase of the government’s new initiative to accelerate development of nationally significant projects.
Carney revealed the timing during a press conference in Fredericton, where he addressed questions from reporters on the government’s economic agenda and infrastructure priorities.
The Major Projects Office, one of Carney’s early policy moves after taking office earlier this year, was established to streamline approvals for large-scale projects considered vital to Canada’s national interest. These may include key initiatives in energy, critical minerals, transportation, housing infrastructure, and clean technology.
Two months ago, the Prime Minister unveiled the first five projects under consideration, but the announcement drew criticism from the Conservative opposition, who described the selections as “low-hanging fruit” given that several were already in advanced stages of development.
So far, none of the initial projects has received formal national interest designation, a classification that would grant them expedited status, including exemptions from certain environmental and regulatory requirements to accelerate their completion.
Once a project is referred to the Major Projects Office, it undergoes a review process before recommendations are made to Cabinet. The final decision on whether to grant the designation rests with the federal government.
Carney emphasized that the upcoming announcement will reflect his government’s commitment to balancing economic growth and environmental responsibility, while ensuring that major investments align with Canada’s long-term sustainability and competitiveness goals.