Carney’s major projects, internal trade bill becomes law

While Bill C-5 passed without amendments, a handful of senators attempted to persuade their colleagues to include language about respecting Indigenous rights.

The Liberal government’s controversial major projects bill has become law after receiving royal assent Thursday.

Bill C-5, which also reduces federal barriers to internal trade, was passed by the Senate earlier Thursday without any amendments after a speedy review.

Senate Speaker Raymonde Gagne announced Gov. Gen. Mary Simon had given royal assent to the bill before the Senate adjourned for the summer break.

The timing upholds Prime Minister Mark Carney’s promise to have all federal internal trade barriers removed by Canada Day.

The legislation gives Ottawa the power to fast-track projects intended to boost the national economy by sidestepping environmental protections and other legislation. The goal is to have such projects approved within two years.

While the bill passed the Senate without amendments, a handful of senators attempted to persuade their colleagues to include language about respecting Indigenous rights.

The politically-charged legislation has angered Indigenous and environmental groups who criticize the government for rushing to grant itself sweeping new powers to speed up development.

Several Indigenous leaders called on MPs and senators to slow the bill’s passage to give Indigenous communities more time to suggest amendments and review the legislation with their lawyers.