Carney Says He Has Clear Mandate to Push Through Economic Changes
Prime Minister Mark Carney says he has a 'very clear mandate' to push through major economic changes in Canada, despite criticism from opposition groups. The comments come as the government tables Bill C-39, a 246-page omnibus bill aimed at streamlining approvals for major projects and establishing a one-year timeline for federal reviews.
The legislation also includes provisions that clarify when the labour minister can step in to end a work stoppage if it's deemed in the national interest. This has drawn heat from organized labour leaders who say it infringes on the right to strike.
Carney said Canada is facing U.S. economic assaults and threats to its sovereignty, and Ottawa's top priority is to 'turbocharge development' to keep the economy going and people working. He established the Major Projects Office to help shepherd proposals through the federal approvals process, with over two dozen projects added to the list since its establishment last year.