Overview

• Farrell will head the federal Major Projects Office, which the government says will streamline regulatory reviews and help structure financing for nationally significant infrastructure.
• The MPO follows June’s passage of Bill C-5, legislation that shortens timelines through a one-project, one-review process and gives cabinet wider authority over project selection, as reported by CBC.
• Locating the office in Calgary signals emphasis on energy and resource development, a move welcomed by Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and business groups including the Calgary Chamber and the Business Council of Canada.
• Indigenous and environmental leaders criticized the new setup, warning it risks sidestepping constitutionally required consultation and weakening environmental safeguards, with the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs voicing strong objection.
• Carney said initial announcements will likely focus on port infrastructure, with projects in Churchill, Manitoba, and Montreal discussed as early candidates, and an Indigenous Advisory Council is slated to be named next month.