Cabinet Power Grab: Carney Government Makes Discretionary Powers Permanent

Nobel laureate Milton Friedman once said there's 'nothing so permanent as a temporary government program.'

The Canadian government is making such a statement a reality with Bill C-39, a massive bill that grants cabinet discretionary power to exempt projects from existing laws and regulations if deemed in the 'national interest.'

This power was initially granted temporarily under Bill C-5, also known as the One Canadian Economy Act. The Carney government's first legislative initiative after the 2025 election, it provided cabinet with the ability to pick winners and losers based on subjective criteria.

The bill included a sunset clause, meaning the powers would expire in five years unless renewed through legislation. However, Bill C-39 makes these powers permanent, increasing uncertainty and likely continuing Canada's investment crisis.