Canadian Chamber Statement on Impact Assessment Act

The recent decision by the Supreme Court of Canada on the Impact Assessment Act illustrates the uncertainty businesses in Canada have faced for many years. Unfortunately, unless the Government of Canada works collaboratively with business and the provinces to establish a clear, coordinated path for major projects, we will continue to see delays, court battles, and lost investment in Canada.

Canada will not meet its net-zero goals if we cannot get major projects built. Whether mining the critical minerals that will enable clean technologies or ensuring the connectivity of a diversified energy grid, Canada needs private sector partners that are committed to long-term projects. 

Regulatory certainty is essential to generate investment and growth in our nation. The ambiguity surrounding the interaction between federal and provincial regulatory bodies has created a climate where businesses face heightened risks and reduced confidence in Canada’s regulatory processes. This uncertainty not only makes it harder for businesses to make informed investment decisions but also weakens Canada’s competitive position on the global stage.

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce firmly urges the Government of Canada to address the issues arising from the Supreme Court’s ruling by demonstrating genuine collaboration. Only a respectful dialogue with the provinces and industry stakeholders to identify practical solutions will permit the timely approval and implementation of projects critical to Canada’s economic well-being. To restore confidence and attract much-needed investment to our country, we must have a modernized, efficient regulatory system that responds to the needs of industry and respects the jurisdiction of both the federal government and the provinces. 

Perrin Beatty, President and CEO, Canadian Chamber of Commerce

About the Canadian Chamber of Commerce — The Future of Business Success

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce is Canada’s largest and most activated business network — representing over 400 chambers of commerce and boards of trade and more than 200,000 business of all sizes, from all sectors of the economy and from every part of the country — to create the conditions for our collective success. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce is the undisputed champion and catalyst for the future of business success. From working with government on economy-friendly policy to providing services that inform commerce and enable trade, we give each of our members more of what they need to succeed: insight into markets, competitors and trends, influence over the decisions and policies that drive business success and impact on business and economic performance.

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Contact
Karl Oczkowski
Senior Director, Corporate Communications & Public Relations
Canadian Chamber of Commerce
koczkowski@chamber.ca