Prime Minister Mark Carney announced last week that the federal government will establish a Federal Major Projects Office to oversee and expedite projects designated as being in the national interest under the new Building Canada Act.
The move comes as Canada embarks on what Carney has called a “generational opportunity” to renew the nation’s infrastructure. With the government committing 5% of GDP toward defence, civil preparedness, and major infrastructure, Ottawa is seeking to cut through the lengthy timelines that have historically slowed down highways, ports, and energy corridors.
Once a project is declared in the national interest, it will be prioritized and benefit from a single point of contact through the new office, which will coordinate across departments, streamline approvals, and keep reviews on track.
Key Aspects of the Major Projects Office
- Single point of contact for companies and proponents working with federal departments.
- Streamlined approvals to make reviews faster, clearer, and more predictable.
- Indigenous Advisory Council with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis representation to guide best practices for consultation.
- Focus on nation-building projects such as highways, ports, and energy corridors.
- Commitment to standards on safety, environmental protection, and Indigenous rights, even as timelines are shortened.
The government says more details about the Office’s structure and operations will be released in the coming weeks.
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