Toronto, June 5, 2026: After promising to approve major projects at “speeds not seen in generations”, PM Mark Carney has backtracked on yet another of his commitments by stating he will be slowing down the major project approval process because the original plan to table legislation before Parliament rises for the summer has angered First Nations and civil society organizations. The latter are primarily environmental groups. Carney said he would extend the public engagement period until July 22. This means any regulatory changes will be put off until at least the autumn of 2026, if not longer.

CCMBC President Catherine Swift noted “What this announcement means is the usual groups that obstruct major projects in Canada are once again being indulged at the expense of economic progress for all Canadians. Does Carney really believe that a delay of a few months will satisfy these perennially disgruntled constituencies? Of course not.”

What Canada needs is leadership that sticks to timelines, does adequate consultations with all relevant constituencies, but does not permit any group to hold up the projects that Canada needs to get its economy moving again.  The small- and medium-sized business community has repeatedly said a key problem preventing the investment and business growth we need is uncertainty created by government on such vital issues as lack of progress on a Canada-US trade agreement and the excessive regulatory burden. Swift noted “The fact that Carney has caved in to the usual interest groups does not bode well for the future of the major projects Canada needs. These groups will now be emboldened to ensure Canada retains its reputation as the country where nothing ever gets done.”

The message to business, who want to build in Canada but are looking to leave Canada or are already leaving because of oppressive, overbearing government, is that little has changed since the Trudeau era. Swift concluded “Once again, the federal government is all talk and no action. Former PM Paul Martin was called Mr. Dithers as he couldn’t follow through with a decision. It seems Canada has a new Mr. Dithers in Carney.”

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The CCMBC was formed in 2016 with a mandate to advocate for proactive and innovative policies that are conducive to manufacturing and business retention and safeguarding job growth in Canada. For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact Catherine Swift at swifty4488@outlook.com or 416 816 7248.