← LEADERSHIP TERMINAL

HOUSE OF COMMONS · FORMER

Wade Grant

Vancouver Quadra, British Columbia · Liberal · Canada

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

Mr. Speaker, we cannot build a clean Canada if we are not working together. We are thinking differently and strategically to deliver results for Canadians. We have introduced new methane regulations. We have brought Alberta to the table. We have actually brought Canada's largest-emitting province to the table.

SITTING 135 · 2026-06-11 · READ IN HANSARD

Mr. Speaker, on top of what I just said, we have also released the nature strategy. We are going to be protecting 30% of Canada's lands and waters by 2030. In fact, about two weeks ago, I went to Klemtu on the coast of British Columbia, where I was standing with the Minister of the Environment and Climate Change .

SITTING 135 · 2026-06-11 · READ IN HANSARD

Mr. Speaker, we cannot build Canada strong and clean if we are not working together. That is why we are thinking differently, strategically, to deliver real results for Canadians. We have introduced new methane regulations and $90 billion in clean investment tax credits.

SITTING 121 · 2026-05-24 · READ IN HANSARD

Mr. Speaker, I have memories of being in high school in the early 1990s when the B.C. treaty process was opened up because of the many title cases that my colleague has talked about. Fellow students asked, “Are you coming for our house?

SITTING 119 · 2026-05-06 · READ IN HANSARD

Mr. Speaker, I know that my colleague, the member for Richmond East—Steveston, has been very involved with the issue. He is very concerned as well, because he does take this very seriously with his residents and his constituents.

SITTING 119 · 2026-05-06 · READ IN HANSARD

Mr. Speaker, I have much respect for my colleague from the Nanaimo territory. She mentioned that the government failed to negotiate a treaty with the Cowichan Tribes. However, the Stz’uminus tribe, which is part of the Cowichan Tribes, dropped out of the treaty process in 2014, and who was in government at the time, in 2014?

SITTING 119 · 2026-05-06 · READ IN HANSARD

The complete record

Every one of 238 lines we hold for Wade Grant, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 2 of 5.

  1. Climate action and economic resilience go hand in hand. Our approach is to support farmers and producers, strengthen competition and ensure that Canada's economy remains strong and competitive in the changing global market while also protecting the environment and public health for future generations.

    SITTING 97 · 2026-03-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  2. They do not mandate a specific price increase at the pump, and the actual impact depends on how suppliers choose to comply. Independent analysis indicates that the overall impact on fuel prices is expected to remain modest. Suggestions that we cancel the clean fuel regulations are misguided. They have supported billions of dollars of investments in clean fuel projects while supporting sustainable jobs across Canada. In short, climate action and affordability are not competing goals. Well-designed climate policies are supporting innovation and investment in Canada's energy sector while reducing emissions that contribute to climate change. That matters because climate change itself is already affecting food production through droughts, floods and other extreme weather events that disrupt harvests and supply chains.

    SITTING 97 · 2026-03-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  3. It does not apply to individual Canadians or to farms, and it is structured specifically to avoid driving investment or jobs out of this country. This approach ensures that Canadian industries remain competitive as more and more international markets place a premium on low-carbon production. Rolling back these policies would not lower grocery bills, but would introduce uncertainty for business owners and risk, leaving Canadian exporters at higher exposure to carbon border measures, which key trading partners are already putting in place. The same principle applies to the clean fuel regulations. These regulations set performance standards for fuel suppliers and provide multiple flexible options for compliance, including blending low-carbon fuels or investing in cleaner production.

    SITTING 97 · 2026-03-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  4. Speaker, I have two young kids, so it is okay. I have dealt with people yelling at me when I am trying to do my job. Food prices in Canada, as in many countries, have been influenced by a range of global factors. Supply chain disruptions, geopolitical instability, extreme weather and rising production costs have always played a role in putting pressure on food systems worldwide. These are challenges that farmers and producers are facing not just here in Canada, but across the globe. With respect to Canada's climate policies, it is important to clarify the facts. Canada's industrial carbon pricing system applies to large industrial emitters. It is designed to encourage efficiency and cleaner production while protecting the competitiveness of Canadian industries that operate in global markets.

    SITTING 97 · 2026-03-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  5. Mr. Speaker, let me be clear that I and this government take food affordability concerns seriously. We know that families across the country are feeling the pressure of higher grocery bills. That is why earlier this year we introduced the Canada grocery and essentials benefit, previously the GST credit. This new benefit will boost payments to Canadians by 25% for five years plus a one-time 50% increase, delivering up to $1,890 to families nationwide. This is significant money to help with rising costs, including for families in my own community of the Musqueam First Nation. To understand the cost of rising food prices, it is important that we have an honest conversation about what is actually driving prices and what our policies are designed to do. Food prices in Canada— An hon. member: Oh, oh! Wade Grant: Mr.

    SITTING 97 · 2026-03-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  6. Mr. Speaker, let me be absolutely clear. We will not tolerate financial wrongdoing. Budget 2025 introduced new, strengthened measures to ensure stronger financial oversight and improved detection and prevention of financial crimes across Canada. We are committed to ensuring that our industries are not only protected from this current global environment, but strengthened and able to adapt to changing conditions. We will continue to ensure that public funds are safeguarded and used responsibly, while acting decisively to support responsible innovation efforts.

    SITTING 97 · 2026-03-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  7. We can work with the industries to strengthen the Canadian economy. The company has unfortunately faced a number of financial challenges, which resulted in the company seeking creditor protection in late 2024 and ultimately being sold to a group of Quebec-based investors in 2025. As we continue to modernize our response to the changing global landscape and work closely with our cross-government partners, we will continue to ensure that Canadian taxpayers get responsible governance and responsible use of taxpayers' dollars, to create a stronger, more resilient Canadian economy. It is absolutely vital, in this time of global uncertainty, that Canada remains focused on economic development, protecting and creating jobs, and attracting talent, both home and abroad, as well as investments.

    SITTING 97 · 2026-03-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  8. The new financial crimes agency will bring together the required expertise to investigate crimes such as money laundering, online fraud and financial scams, and recover criminals' illicit proceeds. For some prior context on the matter at hand, the government announced a contribution through the strategic innovation fund with Lion Electric in March 2021, of which $31 million has been disbursed according to the public accounts of Canada audit. This loan was paid out as a partially repayable contribution to Lion Electric, which the government continues to monitor as Justice Canada and the court-appointed trustees evaluate the next steps. In this new global era, we know that unjustified U.S. tariffs have impacted our industries. These we cannot control but we can control our responses.

    SITTING 97 · 2026-03-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  9. Mr. Speaker, with regard to the particular matter raised by my colleague, it would not be appropriate for a minister or parliamentary secretary to indicate an opinion on criminality. This is a matter for law enforcement and the courts to determine. However, it is important to acknowledge the member's concerns. Canada's new government takes financial crimes seriously. This is why our government has introduced the first-ever national anti-fraud strategy through budget 2025. We have committed more resources to the RCMP, to a new Canadian financial crimes agency and to stronger FINTRAC authorities in order to better prevent and respond to financial wrongdoing accusations.

    SITTING 97 · 2026-03-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  10. I offer my heartfelt condolences to his wife Sara; their children Asher, Cassidy and Zoe; and his parents Shirley and Peter. May his memory be for a blessing.

    SITTING 97 · 2026-03-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  11. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to pay tribute to a man I was lucky enough to get to know over the last 10 years. David Barnett of my riding of Vancouver Quadra passed away on February 5 at the age of 53, after a courageous battle with a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Dave was executive vice-president of the Dayhu Group of Companies, working alongside his brother Jonathan to build on their family's 70-year legacy in real estate. However, what I will remember him for and what he may be best remembered for is founding the Music Heals Charitable Foundation with his wife Sara Ferguson. Together, they helped fund music therapy programs across British Columbia and Canada with over $5 million. David's life was far too short, but his impact was undoubtedly profound. He was known for his kindness, his generosity and his warmth.

    SITTING 97 · 2026-03-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  12. Mr. Speaker, before I came to this side of the House, I was so excited when the national school food program was put forward. I grew up in a first nations community among many kids who lived below the poverty line. When I go down to my community centre, I watch kids go into our community centre. They get breakfast, they get lunch and they go to school with a full belly. When I graduated from high school, I was one of very few who graduated from high school. Now we are seeing kids graduate in record numbers in my community. I have no doubt that it is because of the nutritious breakfasts and lunches they get.

    SITTING 91 · 2026-02-27 · READ IN HANSARD

  13. Mr. Speaker, I just want to address the fact that Canada's climate strategy is about more than meeting commitments; it is also about building a safer, stronger and more prosperous country. By putting a price on pollution, investing in clean energy and supporting indigenous-led solutions, we are reducing emissions while creating jobs and economic opportunity. Our national adaptation strategy and action plan help communities prepare for climate risks, protect biodiversity and build resilience. Canada remains fully engaged internationally, reporting under the Paris Agreement and working with partners to ensure that our climate actions are effective. We are committed to measurable results for climate, for nature and for reconciliation. That is not only for today, but that also is for many generations to come.

    SITTING 88 · 2026-02-24 · READ IN HANSARD

  14. The Government of Canada is fully committed to delivering on its climate obligations, supporting adaptation, advancing nature protection and working with indigenous peoples across this country to ensure a sustainable, resilient and prosperous Canada for all.

    SITTING 88 · 2026-02-24 · READ IN HANSARD

  15. The Government of Canada has a fundamental commitment to reconciliation and respects indigenous peoples as equal partners in the country we are building together. If I did not believe that, I would not be standing on this side of the House. The government supports the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and invests in indigenous-led climate solutions. Since 2020, over $2 billion has been committed to indigenous climate action, including funds for clean energy, energy efficiency and resiliency. Indigenous knowledge and leadership are critical to achieving meaningful, long-term and long-lasting change.

    SITTING 88 · 2026-02-24 · READ IN HANSARD

  16. By putting a price on pollution for large industrial polluters, we drive decarbonization, support innovation and create good jobs, while keeping energy and goods affordable. Strong industrial carbon markets also help Canada maintain trade relationships with partners like Europe and the U.K., ensuring that our exports meet the growing global demand for low-carbon products. We are also investing in adaptation. The national adaptation strategy, supported by the Government of Canada adaptation action plan, lays out more than 70 actions to protect communities, improve health outcomes, safeguard nature and support a resilient economy. Since 2015, Canada has invested over $6.6 billion in adaptation, including new funding in budget 2025 for community infrastructure and youth-focused initiatives.

    SITTING 88 · 2026-02-24 · READ IN HANSARD

  17. Budget 2025 sets Canada on a path to meet our legally binding commitments, while building a strong, resilient economy. This includes cutting greenhouse gas emissions and addressing the impacts of climate change. Our climate competitiveness strategy in budget 2025 drives these outcomes while building a resilient economy. As the Prime Minister has stated, this budget puts us on a path for real results for climate, for nature and for reconciliation with indigenous peoples. We respect our Paris commitments, and we are determined to achieve them. Industrial carbon pricing is central to Canada's climate strategy. It is designed not only to reduce emissions but also to unlock investment in clean technologies, support Canadian industries and maintain our competitiveness in global markets.

    SITTING 88 · 2026-02-24 · READ IN HANSARD

  18. Mr. Speaker, it is always a pleasure to rise to engage with my dear colleague from Saanich—Gulf Islands. The government does and will always take climate change commitments very seriously. In 2015, Canada, alongside 194 other countries, adopted the Paris Agreement under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The agreement sets a global goal to limit warming, strengthen resilience and align financial flows with low emissions and climate-resilient development. In addition, almost every country in the world, including Canada, has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and preparing for the impacts that climate change presents. Our government recognizes that climate action is both a moral responsibility and an economic necessity.

    SITTING 88 · 2026-02-24 · READ IN HANSARD

  19. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from British Columbia for the question. I am so proud to stand on this side of the House as we build Canada strong from coast to coast to coast. Building Canada's housing is very important not only in cities and provinces but in first nations communities. I live in a first nations community with a housing list of over 500 people. These people want to come home to their communities. That is why I am so proud of this new policy. It is why I know my children are going to be able to live where they please with their families for future generations.

    SITTING 86 · 2026-02-13 · READ IN HANSARD

  20. Mr. Speaker, I will repeat this because it matters: Farmers do not pay the industrial carbon price, and groceries are not subject to the carbon price. Industrial carbon pricing focuses only on major emitters and gives them practical options to reduce pollution at the lowest possible cost, while it also drives investment in clean technology in Canada. If the opposition succeeded in dismantling these tools, it would not lower food prices. It would increase pollution, reduce investor certainty and place Canadian industries at a competitive disadvantage as other countries move toward cleaner production. Our government will stay focused on affordability, economic resilience and a cleaner future for Canadian workers and families.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  21. Eliminating climate policy will not reverse climate-related crop losses. It will not stabilize global supply chains, and it will not protect Canadian industries from carbon border measures being implemented by our trading partners. Climate action and economic strength go hand in hand. We will continue to deliver on both. That is what this side of the House promises.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  22. This is not a one-size-fits-all levy; it is a flexible framework that rewards innovation, drives investment and minimizes cost impacts across the economy. When Canadians see higher grocery bills, the main drivers are global: disrupted shipping routes, climate-related crop impacts, and the cascading effects of Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine on fertilizer and energy markets. These are the same pressures facing consumers in Europe, in the United States and around the world. Our government has taken concrete steps to support producers, and it continues targeted support through the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act. We continue to work with farmers and not against them. The idea that scrapping the industrial carbon pricing would suddenly make fruit from the Okanagan cheaper is simply not rooted in evidence.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  23. Farmers do not directly pay the industrial carbon tax, and there are almost no costs passed to consumers. The system in question applies only to large industrial emitters: the steel, cement, oil and gas, mining and other heavy industries. It was designed so the biggest polluters, not smaller operations like Canadian farmers, are the ones carrying the costs. The intent is straightforward: Cut emissions from major industrial facilities while protecting competitiveness and keeping jobs here in Canada. Under the federal system, industries have several compliance options. They can make their operations more efficient, including by adopting new technologies; they can generate or buy credits from cleaner performers; or they can pay the carbon price.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  24. Mr. Speaker, I just want to make sure we make it clear that the member is presenting a picture of the industrial carbon pricing system that simply does not reflect how it works or to whom it applies. There is no carbon tax on food, and farmers are not subject to the industrial carbon price. That is a fact. Independent modelling backs this up. An analysis from the Canadian Climate Institute and Navius Research shows that the economic effect on industrial carbon pricing on consumption will be extremely small, less than one-tenth of one per cent by 2030. Industrial carbon pricing has essentially no impact on the agricultural sector. The same analysis projects that the cumulative GDP impact on the agricultural sector would be 0.08% by 2030.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  25. Madam Speaker, as a father of two young children, aged 15 and 17, I know how important it is to ensure that we think about the health and safety of our children and youth. We will work hard in ensuring that they are not in any danger moving forward. That is what we will continue to do on this side of the House, and I really look forward to working with both sides of the House to ensure the safety of our young children moving forward.

    SITTING 81 · 2026-02-06 · READ IN HANSARD

  26. As we move forward, I want to raise my hands to my aunt and end this speech for everyone in the House the way she would end it, by saying, “May your days be filled with joy. May your successes be frequent. May you find peace and comfort, and may your hearts always know how special you all are.” Hay čxʷ q̓ə .

    SITTING 78 · 2026-02-03 · READ IN HANSARD

  27. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart but in celebration of one of my matriarchs. Barbara “Mary” Charles passed away at the age of 96 last year. Better known to thousands as Aunty Mary, she grew up as a Tsleil-Waututh member, went to a Catholic day school for much of her youth and at 17 married into Musqueam. She had 13 children and became the leader of her family, but also a leader in Musqueam as a councillor for over 40 years and engaged in the Sparrow case that proved our right to fish for food, social and ceremonial purposes. After her time as a councillor, she became a cultural ambassador for Musqueam, welcoming dignitaries, royalty, celebrities and even politicians. In fact, the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure once called her his rock.

    SITTING 78 · 2026-02-03 · READ IN HANSARD

  28. Mr. Speaker, industrial carbon pricing is about fairness and economic responsibility. When pollution imposes real costs, those costs should be borne by the largest emitters, not by families and not by farmers. The system is designed to protect industrial competitiveness, reward efficiency and align Canada with global clean market rules. Scrapping it would not lower grocery prices or strengthen industry; it would weaken Canada's position at a time when clean production is becoming a condition for access to global markets. Our focus is clear. It remains on a strong economy, fair rules and long-term competitiveness.

    SITTING 77 · 2026-02-02 · READ IN HANSARD

  29. Food inflation has been shaped by global energy shocks, supply chain disruptions, climate-related crop losses and international market volatility, pressures that are being felt well beyond our country's borders. Abandoning the polluter pays principle would not make Canada more competitive; it would make us less prepared. It would leave Canadian industries exposed to future trade penalties and undermine the investments already under way to modernize our economy. Our approach ensures that heavy industry does its fair share, innovation is rewarded, and Canada remains a strong, credible trading partner in a rapidly changing global economy.

    SITTING 77 · 2026-02-02 · READ IN HANSARD

  30. Countries that fail to reduce industrial emissions will face growing trade barriers and investment risks. Industrial carbon pricing helps ensure Canadian products remain competitive in a world that increasingly values low-emissions production. The system also provides flexibility. Facilities can reduce emissions directly, improve efficiency, switch fuels, generate credits or purchase credits from others that outperform their targets. This market-based design keeps costs down and allows businesses to choose the most cost-effective path forward, rather than imposing rigid rules or blanket changes. It is also important to be clear about what this policy does and does not do. It does not apply to families at the checkout counter, it does not apply to farms, and it is not the driver of rising grocery prices.

    SITTING 77 · 2026-02-02 · READ IN HANSARD

  31. What I do know is, within billions, the $57 billion in decarbonization relating to industrial carbon pricing infrastructure. The industrial carbon pricing system is not a tax designated to punish industry. It is a performance-based system that applies only to Canada's largest emitters and is carefully calibrated to maintain competitiveness while driving cleaner growth. Facilities are charged only on emissions above a set standard, which rewards companies that operate more efficiently and invest in cleaner technologies. Those that innovate pay less; those that pollute more are expected to pay more. This approach is essential for Canada's economic future. Global markets are moving quickly toward low-carbon production. Major trading partners are introducing carbon border measures and clean procurement standards.

    SITTING 77 · 2026-02-02 · READ IN HANSARD

  32. Mr. Speaker, I know some people think one should not do this after February 1, but I would like to wish you a happy new year, because it is the first time I have been able to engage with you. The purpose of Canada's industrial carbon pricing system is straightforward and fair. Large producers should take responsibility for the pollution they produce. That is the principle at the heart of the policy and one that Canadians understand instinctively. When pollution has real costs for our health, our environment, our economy and our future, those costs should not be absorbed by families, taxpayers or future generations. Instead, it seems that the opposition has not taken the time to understand the substance of our environmental policies.

    SITTING 77 · 2026-02-02 · READ IN HANSARD

  33. Mr. Speaker, that is why, in my speech today, I did indicate that free, prior and informed consent is something that we will seek to achieve with indigenous communities right across the province of British Columbia.

    SITTING 70 · 2025-12-09 · READ IN HANSARD

  34. Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to be here as the first member of my first nation for my home riding of Vancouver Quadra. I have watched over the years as my mother, who was chief, as my grandfather, who was chief, as my uncle, who was chief, have further succeeded in making sure that our interests are always first and foremost. The government on this side has made great strides in ensuring that we respect aboriginal title and rights. I have sat on the other side of the table, and I have spoken with many people on this side of the table. That is why I am comfortable with being on this side of the table, because, first and foremost, aboriginal title and rights will be respected on this side of the government.

    SITTING 70 · 2025-12-09 · READ IN HANSARD

  35. Mr. Speaker, the short answer is no, I did not want to be a Conservative. The long answer is, I do believe in climate change. I do believe in aboriginal title and rights, and I do believe in the respect to come and speak in meaningful consultation. That is what the commitment has been. In fact, today I had the honour of sitting down with coastal first nations to let them know that I will continue to meet with them, and this side of the House will continue to meet with them in person at their convenience, so that we can make sure that they are fully on board to collaborate on any new future project.

    SITTING 70 · 2025-12-09 · READ IN HANSARD

  36. Mr. Speaker, I have known the member opposite for many years. I know that he has done great work for his community. I know that this government respects aboriginal title and rights in this country. I do know that those conversations are going to be important as we move forward, as we go toward major projects in this country. The member opposite represents many of those coastal first nations in northwestern British Columbia. Does he go and speak to them about how they want him to vote on the MOU?

    SITTING 70 · 2025-12-09 · READ IN HANSARD

  37. Our journey toward reconciliation continues to be a priority for me, and it is one of the reasons I am standing on this side of the House today. Standing in the House today to talk about this government's commitment to building one Canadian economy through co-operative federalism and reconciliation has been an honour. This government is pleased to work together with Alberta. I am confident that we will further strengthen our relationship and put in place the conditions necessary to collaborate on all future assessments and a cohesive climate plan.

    SITTING 70 · 2025-12-09 · READ IN HANSARD

  38. The partnership of indigenous peoples in the impact assessment process is an essential way to fully understand the impacts of major projects, including impacts on indigenous rights, and to mitigate those effects to the greatest extent possible. Under co-operation agreements, the federal government will coordinate consultation and collaboration with indigenous peoples through the assessment process. We will strengthen partnerships with indigenous groups by prioritizing early and meaningful consultation and upholding the principles of free, prior and informed consent. It is important that we recognize that, across Canada, the lands and waters are the traditional territories of first nations, Inuit and Métis people. Indigenous peoples have cared for these environments for millennia, and their knowledge and leadership remain essential.

    SITTING 70 · 2025-12-09 · READ IN HANSARD

  39. Since then, we have come a long way in reconciliation, not just through jurisprudence, but through the commitment of reconciliation that we must work in collaboration and partnership. It was a sad day, almost 20 years ago, when the former prime minister stood up and apologized about residential schools. The Leader of the Opposition showed how he felt about first nations people by saying that they need to learn the value of hard work. He continues to show his disrespect to aboriginal people by calling them “our” first nations today in this House. I do not belong to anybody. Indigenous people across this country have a deep connection to their lands, territories and resources, and the way forward is in partnership with them.

    SITTING 70 · 2025-12-09 · READ IN HANSARD

  40. It would also be up to the federal government to provide guidance to proponents on early and meaningful engagement with indigenous peoples to address areas of concern well before any decisions are made and to explore opportunities for meaningful partnerships. As stipulated in the agreement with Alberta, the government remains committed to reconciliation with indigenous peoples. I just want to touch on this a bit, because the Constitution has been talked about a lot over the last two weeks. Subsection 35(1) of the Constitution recognizes and affirms aboriginal and treaty rights in this country. I come from the Musqueam Nation on the mouth of the Fraser River, where that section was tested for the first time under the Sparrow decision, which proved that we had the aboriginal right to fish for food, social and ceremonial purposes.

    SITTING 70 · 2025-12-09 · READ IN HANSARD

  41. We have further extended this collaboration to improve coordination on permitting for critical minerals projects and continue to have a collaborative and productive partnership with British Columbia. These agreements will be essential to achieving this government's commitment to streamlining regulatory processes for major projects so they can be completed in two years. Streamlined assessments for major projects do not reduce regulatory requirements, but rather focus the assessments on the most critical issues early in the process, instead of at the end, in order to inform mitigation strategies and decision-making.

    SITTING 70 · 2025-12-09 · READ IN HANSARD

  42. Once it is signed, Alberta will join other provinces that have also committed to “one project, one review”, including New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Manitoba and Ontario, with which we are finalizing new co-operation agreements after a public comment period, in keeping with this government's commitment to transparency and engagement with Canadians. I am confident that we will soon have draft agreements ready with other provinces as well. The commitment to co-operation agreements under the Impact Assessment Act began in 2019, with the first being signed with my home province of British Columbia. This has enabled most projects being assessed by both the federal government and the provincial government under the Impact Assessment Act to undergo a single assessment process.

    SITTING 70 · 2025-12-09 · READ IN HANSARD

  43. Importantly, co-operation agreements would enable the use of new and full flexibilities in the Impact Assessment Act to defer and work through provincial processes to achieve “one project, one review”. Co-operation agreements apply when a project is subject to both a federal and a provincial assessment, which could include a project scheduled under the Building Canada Act. “One project, one review” processes may differ depending on the project, its potential impact and the provincial processes that would apply to it. (1650) By working together under a co-operation agreement, we can streamline assessments and provide greater certainty to proponents, while maintaining the flexibility to implement the appropriate approach on a project-by-project basis and ensuring meaningful engagement with indigenous communities.

    SITTING 70 · 2025-12-09 · READ IN HANSARD

  44. It was only a few months ago that the first ministers met and agreed to work toward the effective and efficient implementation of the goal of a single assessment process, or “one project, one review”, that respects our leading environmental standards and indigenous rights for all major projects. Co-operation agreements under the Impact Assessment Act are a key tool for creating an effective and efficient system that enables us to build nation-building projects faster and responsibly. They allow the federal government to rely on provincial processes in cases where the province confirms that its assessment or regulatory processes will address potential adverse effects within federal jurisdiction.

    SITTING 70 · 2025-12-09 · READ IN HANSARD

  45. This MOU also includes concrete commitments to ensure meaningful consultation with indigenous groups that may be affected by the development of major projects, as well as opportunities to advance economic reconciliation through indigenous ownership and partnership, so that all could benefit from this country's resources. In fact, the commitments in the agreement demonstrate that there are real opportunities for federal and provincial governments to work in the spirit of co-operative federalism to overcome challenges and create new opportunities to build a strong and resilient economy for all of Canada. The one commitment in the memorandum of understanding that I want to speak about specifically is the commitment to sign a co-operation agreement on impact assessment with Alberta by April 1, 2026.

    SITTING 70 · 2025-12-09 · READ IN HANSARD

  46. The agreement specifies how Canada will work with the Province of Alberta on the assessment of all major projects, including clean energy projects. The MOU confirms a shared commitment by Canada and the Province of Alberta to deliver a dependable, cost-effective net-zero electricity grid. It is contingent upon the completion of a new carbon pricing agreement with Alberta, which will be finalized no later than April 1, 2026. We are working with the clean electricity regulations, not around them, in collaboration with the Province of Alberta to get to a net-zero grid. Every province faces unique realities, and we are working closely with Alberta to find an approach that fits its needs.

    SITTING 70 · 2025-12-09 · READ IN HANSARD

  47. In this agreement, Alberta agreed to advance multiple ambitious clean energy projects and measures that will drive down emissions and build a more sustainable economy, including strengthened industrial carbon pricing, carbon capture, enhanced methane regulations, clean electricity regulations and ensuring that Alberta achieves a net-zero electricity grid. By the looks of the motion before us today, the Conservative Party does not agree. The Conservatives have even had a chance to revise their motion through amendment and still refuse to see how important comprehensive climate action is to this country. What the Conservatives do not understand is that, for Canada to achieve net zero and be competitive at a global scale, we need to drive innovation and climate action across the country.

    SITTING 70 · 2025-12-09 · READ IN HANSARD

  48. This agreement includes important commitments that create a path to conditions for investment in western Canada and, at the same time, foster the means to lower greenhouse gas emissions and achieve critical environmental goals. Canada's progress on climate targets depends on a collaboration across all levels of government. We are strengthening federal-provincial collaboration in the energy sector to achieve our Paris targets and net-zero emissions by 2050. Canada and Alberta agreed on a new framework to build a stronger, more sustainable, more competitive economy while not backing down on our commitment to lower emissions and protect our environment.

    SITTING 70 · 2025-12-09 · READ IN HANSARD

  49. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to stand before the House today to speak about the monumental agreement signed between the governments of Canada and Alberta. We know that this country is facing a pivotal, once-in-a-generation moment and that to overcome the challenges of our time, we must bolster and diversify our economy, working hand in hand with provinces, indigenous groups and the private sector to achieve lasting prosperity for all Canadians. This memorandum of understanding is proof that the federal and provincial governments can work collaboratively to enable and attract natural resource development while protecting the environment and respecting indigenous rights.

    SITTING 70 · 2025-12-09 · READ IN HANSARD

  50. Mr. Speaker, once again, I want to express our thanks and gratitude to Mr. Donner and Mademoiselle Abreu for their years of service. Our government values the role of the net-zero advisory board as an independent expert body that provides important advice to inform climate policy. We remain committed to working closely with the board, as we continue advancing Canada toward a net-zero future.

    SITTING 68 · 2025-12-05 · READ IN HANSARD