Manitoba signs agreement with feds to streamline process for major projects

Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and Prime Minister Mark Carney signed a “one project, one review” collaboration agreement to streamline the regulatory process for major projects, including the Churchill Plus Project.

“Today’s agreement between Canada and Manitoba means shovels in the ground faster on major infrastructure projects that will transform our economy,” said Carney. “Together, we are cutting red tape and streamlining approvals to build new trade and energy corridors that will power our industries, create thousands of high-paying Canadian careers and expand our reach in global markets. We’re building Manitoba strong to build Canada strong.”

The prime minister and the premier discussed next steps for the project including attracting private sector interest for an energy feasibility study, identifying near-term opportunities to increase the shipment of critical minerals from the port and establishing a framework and timeline for procuring icebreakers once an energy proponent is secured. They also discussed Churchill’s strategic role in defending Arctic sovereignty, the premier noted.

“As the war in Iran drives up energy costs and destabilizes global supply chains, the importance of Churchill cannot be overstated,” said Kinew. “By working together with First Nations and the federal government, we can open shipping lanes year-round with icebreakers, streamline the regulatory process and provide certainty to the private sector by setting the right conditions for a major project. Not only will Churchill help get Canadian energy to new markets in Europe and India, but investment in the town, port and rail line will help us defend Arctic sovereignty and strengthen our economic ties to Nunavut.”

Featured image: (Arctic Gateway Group)