PM Mark Carney Visits Fort Smith, Inuvik to Discuss Bill C-5, Food Security, Wildfires

Prime Minister Mark Carney is visiting his birthplace of Fort Smith in the Northwest Territories, engaging with local families, community members, and leaders to discuss key issues such as affordability, food security, and the impact of wildfires. During his visit, Carney met with Northwest Territories Premier R.J. Simpson and plans to meet Indigenous leaders in Inuvik, including Natan Obed, president of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami. A significant focus of his discussions is Bill C-5, the federal legislation aimed at fast-tracking national projects by streamlining regulatory reviews while maintaining commitments to Indigenous consultation and environmental protection. The bill has been controversial among Indigenous groups concerned about treaty rights and consultation processes. Carney emphasized that Indigenous Peoples will be consulted throughout project selection and review stages, with the goal of reducing delays in project approvals. This visit marks Carney's first official trip as prime minister to the region of his early childhood, reflecting his personal connection to the community and the federal government's engagement with northern and Indigenous issues.