Government launches two discussion papers to further streamline regulatory process for major projects
In a move to reduce federal reviews of impact assessments for major projects to less than one year, the government is launching a consultation on proposed regulatory changes.
Additionally, in an effort to achieve doubling non-U.S. exports over the next decade, the government is launching a second consultation on proposed legislative and regulatory changes in the transportation and supply chain sectors.
“This will strengthen a uniform regulatory system for major projects and improve supply chain efficiency across Canada. Clear, predictable processes give investors and project proponents the certainty they need to build and drive sustained economic growth for all Canadians,” the government said in a press release.
The Getting Major Projects Built in Canada consultation focuses on changes that would create one crown consultation process to better coordinate with provincial consultation efforts; one project decision to allow the Environment, Climate Change and Nature Minister to issue decisions for projects listed under the Physical Activities Regulations of the Impact Assessment Agency; assign responsibility for relevant reviews to the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) and the Canada Energy Regulator (CER), which CER-reviewed projects no longer requiring separate impact assessments; and creating Federal Economic Zones, for example transportation corridors, telecommunications networks, energy production and transmission and industrial regions, to remove the need for separate project reviews and create more certainty for investors.
“This proposal would create a simpler, more coordinated process in Canada, where federal decisions for major projects could be completed in shorter timelines. It would help project proponents successfully build projects that boost Canada’s economy while ensuring environmental protection, respecting Indigenous rights, and supporting meaningful consultation with Indigenous Peoples,” the government said, noting that legislation will be introduced quickly after the 30-day period.
The Strengthening One Canadian Economy through trade and transportation consultation is open until June 7 and focuses on six questions around efficient and reliable supply chains, reducing administrative burdens, improving collaboration across trade corridors, working with industry and Indigenous Peoples, preventing risks and unintended consequences and effectively implementing the new measures.
The discussion paper can be found here and feedback can be emailed to TC.engagement.TC@tc.gc.ca.
