Published on
Montreal, May 27, 2025 — Équiterre cautiously welcomes the Throne Speech that opens the 45th legislature. While the speech accurately identifies the nature of the challenges we face—particularly the instability of the political regime in the United States—it appears to miss key opportunities that are currently emerging.
"There seems to be an effort to please everyone, but in doing so, there’s a real risk of ending up pleasing no one."
-Marc-André Viau, Director of Government Relations at Équiterre
The organization is puzzled by the government’s mixed signals on energy policy. While aiming to develop capacity and make Canada an energy superpower, the speech makes no mention of energy efficiency—a key principle.
"Energy consumption is intrinsically linked to the development of our energy capacity and how we intend to use it. By expressing an intention to simultaneously develop conventional (i.e., fossil fuel-based) and renewable energy sources, the government is missing an opportunity to make bold, transformative choices for the future," adds Viau, who also expressed concern about the potential weakening of environmental regulations and processes.
"We are concerned about the government’s ability to accelerate project approvals while still respecting environmental regulations. We’re also worried about the capacity to carry out environmental assessments that reflect the unique characteristics of each region, especially with the aim of conducting only one review per project," the expert notes.
Nature, More Than Just National Parks
Équiterre nonetheless welcomes the government’s stated intention to propel nature and agriculture as pillars of national sovereignty and identity.
"Still, we’re left wanting more when it comes to how these goals will be achieved. Nature shouldn’t only be celebrated in our national parks—it must be protected throughout the country. It also needs to play a role in helping our communities adapt to climate challenges. As for agriculture, we’re eager to learn more about how the government intends to support farmers, what this means for local food systems, and how it plans to protect one of our most vital resources: soil," concludes Marc-André Viau.
Équiterre's offices are located on Indigenous lands that have not been ceded by treaty, which we now call Montreal and Quebec City. We recognize that Indigenous peoples have protected their territories since immemorial times and have used their traditional knowledge to guard the lands and waters. We are grateful to live on these lands and are committed to continuing our efforts to protect them. Read more »
For more information :
