Canada’s major project landscape is shifting again, with the federal government announcing a new batch of industrial developments being moved to the fast-track approval list. Unlike the first round — which drew criticism for excluding Indigenous-led proposals — the latest set finally includes projects with Indigenous ownership, partnership, or formal support.
From clean-energy developments in Iqaluit to LNG production on the B.C. coast, the update highlights both progress and ongoing tensions between Ottawa and Indigenous Nations. Yet, despite the momentum, none of these projects are fully approved, and significant consultation is still required.
1. Overview of Canada’s New Major Projects List
The federal government has advanced several new industrial projects to the Major Projects Office (MPO) — the system created to accelerate federal approvals for developments considered in the national interest. This comes after the first round faced backlash for excluding Indigenous-led proposals.
Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed in Terrace, B.C., that the latest list represents $56 billion in projected investment.
2. Why the Second Referral List Is Different
The first referral list was widely criticized for lacking Indigenous representation. In response, Ottawa established an Indigenous advisory council and began reviewing new project submissions with greater focus on Indigenous rights and participation.
The second list now includes several projects with:
- Indigenous ownership
- Indigenous business partnerships
- Indigenous territorial involvement
- Formal nation-to-nation support
3. Indigenous Participation and Equity Ownership
The federal government is offering what Carney calls “huge financing” to support Indigenous equity stakes. This reflects promises made earlier in the year after leaders warned the legislation might weaken their rights and bypass proper consultation.
However, referral to the MPO does not equal approval — all projects must still undergo community consultation, environmental review, and federal decision-making processes.
4. Key Projects Added to the Fast-Track List
Ksi Lisims LNG Project (B.C.)
A floating LNG export facility proposed on Nisga’a Nation territory, backed by the Nation and two U.S. energy companies.
Key points:
- Claims of 94% lower emissions than the global LNG average
- Expected to add $4 billion annually to Canada’s GDP
- Designed to export 12 million tonnes of LNG yearly to Asian markets
- Facing court challenges from two other B.C. First Nations
Crawford Nickel Mine (Ontario)
A major nickel sulphide project supported by three First Nations:
- Matachewan First Nation
- Mattagami First Nation
- Flying Post First Nation
The partnership offers contracting opportunities, including railway construction and employment pathways.
North Coast Transmission Line (B.C.)
A large-scale power line intended to support future clean-energy and LNG projects in the region, including Ksi Lisims LNG.
Iqaluit Hydroelectric Project (Nunavut)
A 15–30 MW facility led by the Inuit-owned Nunavut Nukkiksautiit Corporation.
The goal: reduce reliance on diesel power in the North.
Nouveau Monde Graphite Mine (Quebec)
Located north of Montreal, this mine could produce more than 100,000 tonnes of graphite per year and has an Impact Benefit Agreement with Atikamekw First Nation.
Sisson Mine (New Brunswick)
A tungsten and critical-metals project with revenue-sharing agreements involving six Wolastoqey First Nations.
5. How the Major Projects Office Works
The MPO can accelerate federal approvals by:
- Coordinating between departments
- Reducing duplicate assessments
- Advising on national-interest designation
- Potentially bypassing certain federal laws (if designated)
Possible laws affected:
- Fisheries Act
- Species at Risk Act
- Impact Assessment Act
Important: No project has yet received the “national interest” designation.
6. Concerns From Indigenous Leaders
Despite increased engagement, several leaders remain cautious. Some argue consultation still feels “after the fact,” while others warn projects must not move forward without free, prior, and informed consent.
Key concerns include:
- Environmental risks
- Land rights
- Previous experiences with pipelines
- Fear of rushed approvals
Wet’suwet’en hereditary Chief Na’Moks publicly opposed the LNG and transmission projects, referencing past conflicts such as the Coastal GasLink pipeline protests.
7. Economic Impact and Projected Investments
According to Ottawa, the newly referred projects represent:
- $56 billion in possible economic activity
- Job creation across mining, energy and construction
- Major opportunities for Indigenous business involvement
| Project | Region | Estimated Output / Value |
|---|---|---|
| Ksi Lisims LNG | B.C. | $4B/yr GDP contribution |
| Crawford Nickel Mine | Ontario | Major critical minerals supply |
| Iqaluit Hydro | Nunavut | 15–30 MW clean power |
| Nouveau Monde Graphite | Quebec | 106,000 tonnes/year |
| Sisson Mine | New Brunswick | Critical minerals for global markets |
8. Potential Environmental Exemptions
If granted national-interest status, some projects may receive exemptions from federal environmental laws. This remains a sensitive topic and is one reason Indigenous groups continue to demand full inclusion in the decision-making process.
9. Next Steps and Approval Timeline
After referral to the MPO, each project will:
- Undergo review
- Receive recommendations
- Await cabinet decision
- Possibly be granted national-interest designation
- Move toward final approval or rejection
This process may take months or even years.
10. Final Thoughts
Canada’s updated major projects list marks a noticeable shift toward Indigenous participation. While this progress is meaningful, approvals remain uncertain, and real partnership will depend on transparent consultation and respect for Indigenous rights. Some details still need fine-tuning — but the direction is clear: Indigenous involvement is now central to the future of Canada’s major developments.