Liberals’ major projects bill passes House of Commons with Conservative support

The Liberal government’s major projects legislation, Bill C-5, has passed in the House of Commons as MPs wrapped up the spring parliamentary sitting on Friday evening. This One Canadian Economy Act gives cabinet the authority to select specific projects to expedite through the regulatory process, with a focus on projects that can provide an economic boost to Canada, enhance the country’s autonomy and resilience, advance the interests of Indigenous peoples, and contribute to clean growth.

Prime Minister Mark Carney, who promised to “build big, build bold” during the spring election campaign, made this legislation a priority. Once a project is deemed to be in the national interest, the government can bypass certain laws, such as the Impact Assessment Act, to kickstart construction. The legislation does not mention specific projects, but Carney has expressed support for new energy corridors in the east and west, including pipelines, electricity grids, port facilities, mines, and other resource-related initiatives.

Despite the swift passage of the bill, it has faced opposition from some First Nations groups. The Conservatives supported the bill in its entirety, while the NDP and Bloc Québécois backed a part of the bill that eliminates internal trade barriers. Liberal backbencher Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, who had previously called for more time to study the bill, voted against the legislation.

Following the bill’s approval, Carney reached across the House floor to shake hands with several Conservative MPs. However, Conservative House leader Andrew Scheer cautioned the Liberals against celebrating prematurely, emphasizing that the legislation merely allows the government to circumvent barriers it has imposed. Scheer urged the Liberals to reconsider certain regulatory laws.

The legislation has drawn criticism from Indigenous and environmental groups, as well as some MPs and senators, who argue that it is being rushed through Parliament and grants cabinet excessive powers to override other laws for the government’s preferred industrial projects. In response to these concerns, Carney announced plans to hold full-day summits with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis leadership and experts to ensure that the bill is implemented in the right way.

Indigenous leaders have raised questions about the adequacy of the consultation process with Indigenous communities. Some have expressed concerns that the bill fails to adequately recognize and respect Indigenous constitutional rights. The government sent letters to Indigenous communities outlining the legislation before it was tabled, but leaders believe the consultations were insufficient.

The business community and building trades have supported the bill, citing the lengthy approval process for projects. The government has not disclosed which projects will be fast-tracked under this legislation. Meanwhile, other government bills, such as C-2 and C-4, will have to wait until the fall session as MPs return to Ottawa in September.

Overall, the passage of the One Canadian Economy Act marks a significant step in the government’s efforts to stimulate economic growth, support Indigenous communities, and promote clean growth. The legislation’s implementation will be closely monitored to ensure that it aligns with the interests and rights of all Canadians.