Ottawa and Alberta have come to a consensus where Alberta will be responsible for approving its major projects, aiming to expedite the project process. Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith described the agreement as a significant step in their partnership. Carney emphasized the joint effort to bolster the economy for Albertans and all Canadians.
In an interview on CBC’s “Power & Politics,” Smith expressed that the agreement signifies the conclusion of a prolonged struggle. While Alberta will handle projects under its jurisdiction, federal matters such as water and Indigenous consultations will remain in Ottawa’s domain. This alignment aims to restore the intended equilibrium in project approvals across the country.
Under the agreement, Alberta’s environmental and impact assessment process will oversee projects falling within its jurisdiction. If a project involves federal elements or is situated on federal land, Alberta’s process will merge into the federal review process as necessary. In cases where both federal and provincial assessments apply, regulators will collaborate to streamline decision-making and reduce redundancy.
The agreement also addresses Indigenous consultation, outlining that when a project primarily falls under provincial jurisdiction, Alberta will engage with Indigenous communities based on its consultation policies. Both governments reaffirm their commitment to upholding Indigenous rights under Section 35 of the Constitution and ensuring Indigenous involvement in the assessment process.
Known as the “no more pipelines act,” the Impact Assessment Act has been a subject of contention for the Alberta government. The province is currently contesting the law’s constitutionality in court. The agreement clarifies that Alberta’s participation does not signify acceptance of the constitutionality of the Act.
Political science associate professor Lori Williams views the agreement as a step forward in addressing Alberta’s grievances with Ottawa. Former CEO of the Alberta Petroleum Marketing Commission, Richard Masson, sees the deal as a positive signal of progress in resolving longstanding issues. The aim is to establish a transparent and efficient regulatory framework that upholds high standards while facilitating timely decisions.
The deal signals a shift in the government’s approach towards resource development, according to Masson. The Calgary Chamber of Commerce commended the agreement as a proactive response to policy inconsistencies amid evolving economic landscapes. The finalized agreement, subject to public feedback, is expected by the end of March.
Similar agreements have been forged between Ottawa and the provincial administrations of British Columbia, New Brunswick, and Ontario, reflecting a collaborative effort to streamline project assessment processes.