Ottawa launches consultations on faster approvals for major projects

The federal government has launched consultations on proposed regulatory reforms aimed at reducing approval timelines for major projects to no more than one year after all required information has been submitted by project proponents.

The announcement was made by Dominic LeBlanc, minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade and Internal Trade, and Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon.

The government said the proposed reforms are intended to streamline federal reviews, improve supply chain efficiency and strengthen trade and transportation infrastructure across Canada.

Among the proposals are the creation of a Crown Consultation Hub to coordinate Indigenous consultation processes, a single federal decision-making process for permits and approvals, and the establishment of federal economic zones through regional impact assessments.

The government is also proposing changes to modernize port governance, designate National Trade Corridors and simplify regulatory reporting requirements across departments and agencies.

“To transform our economy and build major projects faster in Canada, investors and project proponents need predictability and efficiency,” said LeBlanc.

The federal government said consultations with Indigenous Peoples, provinces, territories and the public will take place over a 30-day period through two discussion papers focused on major projects and trade and transportation reforms.

“Building Canada strong means building stronger, more resilient supply chains that connect Canadian businesses to the world,” said MacKinnon.

Photo courtesy of Saffron Blaze.