On Friday, the federal government introduced Bill C-5, the One Canadian Economy legislation, which is aimed at eliminating internal trade and labour barriers while fast-tracking major national infrastructure projects. The bill was a key commitment of Prime Minister Mark Carney during the recent election campaign, and he also boldly pledged the legislation would be in force by Canada Day.
The new legislation includes two major acts:
Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act
This component ensures that tradespeople certified in one province can work across the country without redundant paperwork. It enhances recognition of credentials, especially in federally regulated sectors, and supports workforce mobility for large-scale and emerging clean tech projects.
Building Canada Act
Designed to streamline approval for “nation-building” projects – like ports, highways, and energy grids – this act introduces a simplified two-tier approval system between federal and provincial governments and defines a new category of “National Interest Projects.”
Supporting these efforts is a new Major Projects Office (MPO), a federal one-stop shop to accelerate project approvals and ensure Indigenous involvement through an embedded advisory council.
Why This Matters
- Internal trade barriers cost the economy billions.
- Projects will get off the ground faster, with greater investor confidence.
- Workers gain national access to jobs, boosting labour market flexibility.
- Industry and unions will have a clearer pathway to government coordination.
Early Reaction
Many business groups have welcomed the legislation for its focus on speed and clarity. Even Calgary’s energy sector has been cautiously optimistic of the proposed legislation.
However, Indigenous leaders are concerned the bill’s streamlined process to approve infrastructure projects could negatively impact treaty rights, and it remains to be seen if the proposed Indigenous Advisory Committee will address their concerns.
Prime Minister Carney has stated that he won’t force projects on provinces that refuse them. B.C. Premier David Eby has already indicated publicly that he will not support another pipeline in that province, and the issue of a pipeline across Quebec remains a difficult political discussion.
The new legislation has created high expectations across the Country, Canadians are watching closely to see if this legislation passes and the proposed economic benefits are realized.