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Équiterre deciphers
The new federal law just adopted threatens to undermine the very foundations of our democracy, quite simply, almost like a walk in the park - which, ironically, may no longer be protected.
In a nutshell
Bill C-5, recently passed in Ottawa, gives the federal government the power to bypass impact assessments of selected megaprojects and ignore laws and regulations, such as environmental standards - giving inordinate power to decision-makers and very little to communities. With this bill, Cabinet has the discretionary power to designate certain projects as being of “national interest”.
But what exactly is a project of national interest? What will this project achieve? Why do we need an exceptional regime to do it? Why do we have to ignore laws like the one on endangered species in order to carry them out? Radio silence.
Can we really talk about national interest if the population no longer has a say and laws are flouted?
Our thoughts
We're very worried. Will the government choose to prioritize the construction of pipelines to explore for oil, or the construction of pipes to supply drinking water to aboriginal communities? Will it choose to transport gas by pipeline abroad, enriching private companies, or will it instead allow people to be transported by high-speed train, this time enriching Canadian communities?
It's all very vague, and that's why we have so many questions - questions that remain unanswered. One thing is clear: Bill C-5 threatens endangered species and watercourses, and excludes communities from project selection and implementation.
It's a step backwards, both for the environment and for democracy.
What we're asking
Équiterre is asking the government to clarify the “national interest” provision, which we consider rather opaque.
We also need to ensure that all major projects are assessed in the light of climate and environmental impacts, that the principles of transparency and public participation are applied, and that laws such as those on species at risk are fully respected.
👉 To understand in detail what the bill contains and why it should worry you:
