The federal government has introduced Bill C-39, a sweeping new law that would speed up approvals for major development projects and change how Ottawa handles strikes and lockouts.
Prime Minister Mark Carney says the bill will help remove barriers to building mines, pipelines, ports and other infrastructure while boosting Canada’s economy during its trade dispute with the United States.
The proposed law aims to shorten federal project reviews to about one year, create single approval and Indigenous consultation processes, and allow some projects to move ahead more quickly if they are considered in the public interest.
Bill C-39 would also change the Canada Labour Code by adding new steps before the federal government can use Section 107, a controversial power that allows Ottawa to end strikes or lockouts. A special mediator would first try to resolve disputes, and the labour minister would have to consider whether intervention is in the national interest.
Environmental groups say the bill weakens protections for nature, while labour organizations argue it still threatens workers’ constitutional right to strike. Business groups have welcomed the proposed changes, saying they will provide greater certainty for investment.
