May calls out Carney’s sprint to push major projects bill through Commons
Green Party Leader Elizabeth May has expressed deep concerns over the government’s rush to push through a major projects bill, labeling it as a “new low” in government disregard for Parliament. May drew comparisons to a similar move by Stephen Harper’s Conservative government over a decade ago, when an omnibus bill was fast-tracked through Parliament, resulting in the destruction of multiple environmental laws.
May went on to criticize Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government, suggesting that it is operating as a Liberal-Conservative coalition, with policies resembling those of Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre. She made these comments at a news conference where she was joined by First Nations leaders, NDP MP Gord Johns, and environmental group lawyers, all of whom raised concerns about the legislation and the speed at which it is being pushed through.
The bill in question, known as Bill C-5, aims to expedite the approval process for major industrial projects such as mines, pipelines, and ports. It grants the federal cabinet the authority to set aside certain statutes in order to advance these projects in the national interest. The government has defended the bill’s timeline, citing public support due to its alignment with campaign promises made during the recent election.
Sen. Paul Prosper has announced plans to introduce an amendment in the Senate to delay the bill’s progress, expressing concerns that insufficient review could lead to legal challenges. Critics have raised constitutional questions about the legislation, particularly regarding the government’s duty to consult with First Nations under Section 35 of the Constitution.
While some legal experts believe that the bill’s provisions allowing the executive branch to bypass laws for project approvals are likely constitutional, others have raised alarms about potential exemptions from environmental protections and Indigenous consultation requirements. Critics argue that the bill gives the federal government excessive discretion in decisions affecting Indigenous communities.
Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet has called for a thorough examination of the bill, cautioning that it suspends various laws related to language, First Nations rights, and environmental protections. NDP MPs have also requested a slower pace for the bill’s study to allow for more debate in the House.
Overall, the swift progression of Bill C-5 through Parliament has sparked controversy and debate among political parties and stakeholders. The government’s determination to streamline the approval process for major projects has raised concerns about potential impacts on environmental protections, Indigenous rights, and the overall consultation process. As the bill moves forward, it remains to be seen how these issues will be addressed and whether further amendments will be proposed to address the criticisms raised by opposition parties and advocacy groups.
