The federal government is giving Canadians more time to weigh in on proposed reforms aimed at speeding up major project approvals and strengthening Canada’s internal trade and transportation systems.
The government announced Thursday that the public engagement period on the proposed changes has been extended until July 22, nearly two months beyond its original timeline.
The consultation was launched May 8 and focuses on reforms designed to simplify regulatory processes, reduce duplication and ensure federal reviews and decisions on major projects are completed within one year after all required information is submitted by proponents.
Federal officials say the measures are intended to help Canada build major infrastructure, energy and resource projects more quickly while maintaining environmental protections and respecting Indigenous rights.
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More time for feedback
The extension follows what the government described as strong participation from Indigenous groups, industry organizations, provinces, territories, labour groups, environmental organizations and members of the public.
Officials said many participants requested additional time to review the proposals and provide feedback.
“Canadians have demonstrated a strong interest in these proposed reforms and have already provided thoughtful and constructive feedback,” Dominic LeBlanc, minister responsible for Canada-U.S. trade, intergovernmental affairs, internal trade and One Canadian Economy, said in a statement.
“Because these changes have the potential to shape how we build major projects and strengthen our economy for years to come, we want to ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate.”
The government has indicated it intends to introduce legislation during the next sitting of Parliament after consultations conclude.
Focus on major projects and supply chains
The consultation process centres on two discussion papers: Getting Major Projects Built in Canada and Strengthening One Canadian Economy through Trade and Transportation.
The proposals seek to improve regulatory efficiency, accelerate project approvals and address bottlenecks in Canada’s transportation and supply chain networks.
Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon said extending the consultation period will allow more Canadians to contribute ideas on how to improve the country’s transportation systems.
“Together, we can build stronger and more resilient supply chains that connect Canadian businesses to global markets,” he said.
Indigenous engagement remains a priority
The federal government said meaningful engagement with Indigenous Peoples remains a key component of the process.
Officials said Indigenous perspectives will help shape future reforms and ensure rights are respected throughout project reviews and decision-making processes.
Environment Minister Julie Dabrusin said the additional time will help ensure Canadians have more opportunities to provide feedback on how economic development and environmental protection can work together.
“Extending the deadline provides additional opportunities for meaningful participation so we can build a more competitive economy while continuing to protect our natural environment,” she said.
Building on existing initiatives
The proposed reforms build on several recent federal initiatives, including agreements with provinces to support a “one project, one review” approach aimed at reducing overlap in environmental assessments.
The government has finalized co-operation agreements with seven provinces and is negotiating another.
Ottawa has also established a Major Projects Office to help advance large-scale infrastructure and economic development projects across the country. According to the government, the office is currently overseeing 22 major projects and economic strategies representing more than $126 billion in investment.
Federal officials say the broader goal is to strengthen Canada’s economic competitiveness, improve supply chains and support nation-building projects while maintaining robust environmental safeguards.