Canada Unveils Bill to Speed Up Infrastructure Projects Amid Trade Tensions
The Canadian government has returned to Parliament after its summer break, introducing new legislation aimed at speeding up infrastructure projects and addressing trade tensions with the US.
Prime Minister Mark Carney's government introduced the Building Canada Strong Act (Bill C-39), which would allow for faster approvals of major projects such as data centres, ports, airports, and energy projects. The bill is seen as a step towards shoring up the economy and reducing reliance on the US through new trade avenues to Europe and Asia.
The legislation also includes changes to the Canada Labour Code, which union leaders have warned could weaken workers' right to strike. However, Labour Minister Patty Hajdu disputed this characterization of the bill, stating that it would actually strengthen workers' rights.