News Summary

Dawn Farrell, CEO of Canada’s new Major Projects Office, faced scrutiny from MPs over the possibility of using new powers under the government’s major projects bill to bypass the West Coast tanker ban. Conservative MP Branden Leslie raised concerns about the government allegedly informing stakeholders that the new powers could be used to circumvent the ban. However, Director Sarah Jackson clarified that the law does not automatically exempt the tanker ban. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is eager to submit a new pipeline project for approval and hopes to negotiate with the federal government to drop certain environmental laws, including the tanker ban. The discussions between the federal government and Alberta continue, with both parties optimistic about finding a path forward for natural resource development.