FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The federal government’s “What we Heard” consultation report on its proposed Getting Major Project Built policy paper gives hope that this government is listening to Canadians and taking us seriously. Minister Leblanc is quoted saying:

“Canadians have made it clear that they want a regulatory system that is more efficient and predictable, without compromising environmental protections or Indigenous rights.”

Recent polling backs that up and the overwhelming response of Canadians to these “extinction papers” seems to have given him pause. A few months ago it seemed the government was willing to sacrifice nature on the altar of economic resilience; but the change in tone is now palpable.

The report’s Executive Summary makes it clear that Canadians spoke with an overwhelming voice in support of nature:

“What emerged were clear perspectives for effective assessment processes: one that prioritizes consultation with Indigenous Peoples, maintains thorough environmental evaluation, preserves species at risk protections, and ensures transparent decision-making.”

As we review the reports in more detail, we note that the report highlights the strong public engagement during the consultation process; with tens of thousands of Canadians’ voices amplified through ENGOs like Nature Canada. But it also notes that undefined “diverse stakeholders” are in favour of changes such as Special Economic Zones, and ministerial discretion to waive environmental protection. Such stakeholders almost certainly include major corporate interests, backed by petro-dollars and focussed on resource extraction. Given the asymmetrical resources between ENGOs representing everyday Canadian voters and the “diverse stakeholders”, one would hope that the Minister weighs those perspectives accordingly.

As the Policy Director at Nature Canada, Akaash Maharaj is at the forefront of shaping policies with federal, provincial, and Indigenous governments to protect species and conserve habitats across the country. He focusses on helping bring Canada into compliance with its commitments under global treaties on biodiversity and climate change.

For additional comment:
Akaash Maharaj, Director of Policy, Nature Canada
media@naturecanada.ca | 416-995-3275