Canada to speed up major project reviews, trade and transportation, and labour relations

The Government of Canada has released four What We Heard reports summarizing feedback on proposed reforms aimed at improving major project reviews, strengthening transportation networks and modernizing federal labour relations. The reports reflect input from Indigenous Peoples, provinces and territories, industry, unions and other stakeholders.

According to the Government, the feedback will help shape work in three areas: making major project reviews more efficient, improving transportation and supply chains, and updating the federal labour relations framework.

The report on major projects is based on more than 26,000 submissions, including over 400 from Indigenous Peoples and industry. It shows strong interest in faster and more predictable federal regulatory processes while maintaining environmental protections and Indigenous rights.

Transport Canada’s engagement included more than 300 industry participants and 82 submissions from Indigenous Peoples. Feedback focused on improving transportation efficiency, diversifying trade and strengthening supply chains. Participants also asked for more information on corridor‑based planning, the proposed Transportation Projects Office and digital trade initiatives.

Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon said they are working to cut red tape, strengthen supply chains, speed up infrastructure projects and attract investment to support Canada’s economy and create jobs.

“”Canada’s trade corridors connect Canadian businesses to markets and supply chains at home and around the world. We heard directly from Indigenous Peoples, the transportation industry, and Canadians about what is needed to build stronger, more efficient and more resilient supply chains,” he said.

A separate report on transportation security clearances found general support for proposed legislative amendments to address evolving security risks, including organized crime and supply chain exploitation.

The labour relations report highlights that most collective agreements are reached through good‑faith bargaining, but current tools are not always effective for complex disputes that affect businesses, communities and supply chains. It identifies opportunities to modernize the Canada Labour Code to better support workers and employers.

Dominic LeBlanc, President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada, said the feedback will help guide the next steps to speed up major projects and strengthen Canada’s ability to operate as a more independent and more prosperous country.

“Canadians have made it clear that they want a regulatory system that is more efficient and predictable, without compromising environmental protections or Indigenous rights,” he said.