Bypasses certain provisions of existing laws to expedite progress.
The Canadian Senate has passed Bill C-5, Prime Minister Mark Carney’s first major piece of legislation, without amendments. The bill significantly alters Canada’s project approval process by enabling the Cabinet to expedite the approval of infrastructure and resource projects deemed to be in the national interest. Projects added to a new federal schedule will bypass certain provisions of existing laws, thereby consolidating approvals and reducing regulatory delays. The bill also implements annual independent reviews to track the progress and compliance of each project.
Although the legislation doesn’t name specific initiatives, Carney has indicated that it could support energy projects, mines, ports, and transportation infrastructure, according to the Financial Post. The timing aligns with Canada’s push to meet the newly agreed-upon NATO defense spending targets, which are rising from 2% to 5% of GDP. Carney argued earlier this week that expanding Canada’s critical minerals sector and related infrastructure can help fulfill the alliance’s goals, particularly the 1.5% infrastructure component.
However, Indigenous senators and leaders have voiced strong opposition to Bill C-5, citing a lack of consultation, the absence of guaranteed consent, and risks to Indigenous rights, according to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. Critics warn that fast-tracking development without proper oversight undermines environmental protection and reconciliation efforts.
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