The federal government has introduced legislation aimed at shortening approval timelines for major infrastructure projects while changing federal labour rules and strengthening protections for workers.
Bill C-39, the Building Canada Strong Act, would require federal reviews and decisions on qualifying infrastructure projects to be completed within one year after a proponent submits a comprehensive application.
The government says the legislation is intended to provide more certainty for investors and project proponents while maintaining environmental standards and Indigenous rights.
One-year timeline for project reviews
Under the proposed legislation, federal departments would be expected to complete project reviews and reach decisions within one year.
The government says the changes would create clearer and more predictable processes for companies and Indigenous groups involved in consultations.
A separate cabinet directive has also been issued directing federal reviews and project decisions to be completed within the one-year timeline.
The government says environmental protections and its obligations to consult Indigenous Peoples would remain in place.
Trade corridors and ports targeted
Bill C-39 would also make changes aimed at speeding up transportation and trade infrastructure projects.
The legislation would allow the federal government to formally designate strategic trade corridors and establish a transportation project office to co-ordinate federal permitting for priority projects.
Changes are also proposed for port governance, trade digitalization and administrative requirements.
Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon said the measures are intended to move Canadian goods more efficiently and strengthen supply chains.
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Changes proposed for federal labour rules
The legislation would also amend the Canada Labour Code.
The government says the changes are intended to encourage employers and unions to address disputes earlier and reach negotiated agreements while maintaining the right to strike.
Ottawa also plans to add 100 federal health and safety officers, which it says would increase inspection capacity by about 70 per cent.
Another 26 employees would be added to the Canada Industrial Relations Board to help address a backlog of worker complaints.
The government also says additional inspectors would be used to target cases where workers may be improperly classified.
Government says consultation shaped bill
Prime Minister Mark Carney said the legislation is intended to provide greater certainty around major projects.
“Canada is a country of high standards, but high standards do not require slow decisions,” Carney said.
Dominic LeBlanc, minister responsible for Canada-U.S. trade, intergovernmental affairs and one Canadian economy, said the government’s goal is “one project, one review, one year.”
The government says the legislation follows consultations with workers, unions, employers, Indigenous Peoples, provincial and territorial governments, industry and other organizations.
Bill C-39 must still proceed through the parliamentary process before becoming law.