Senate Passes Bill Fast-Tracking National Projects

The Canadian Senate has passed Bill C-5, Prime Minister Mark Carney’s controversial legislation that gives Ottawa the authority to bypass environmental reviews and other legal requirements when fast-tracking major national infrastructure projects. The bill was rapidly introduced and processed in response to economic pressures from the U.S., sparking criticism from Indigenous and environmental groups over concerns it undermines their rights and protections. Despite calls for amendments to safeguard Indigenous rights, all proposed changes were rejected, with senators expressing unease about the accelerated process. The government has promised ongoing consultations with Indigenous groups before projects are designated as nationally significant. Public opinion is split: nearly three-quarters of Canadians support speeding up projects, but many oppose bypassing environmental and provincial oversight, and most believe Indigenous consultation is essential. The bill is now pending royal assent to become law.