Prime Minister Carney backs pipelines, but his cabinet reveals internal divides on energy policy, sparking national debate on Canada’s future.
New Prime Minister’s Pipeline Stance Sparks Cabinet Divide
Just days into office, Prime Minister Mark Carney has made headlines by clearly stating his support for new pipeline development in Canada—if consensus exists. However, the tone among his cabinet ministers has already revealed divisions, raising questions about the government’s unified approach to national energy strategy.
At the cabinet’s first meeting in Ottawa, multiple ministers offered differing takes on the country’s energy priorities and pipeline future, highlighting the tension between environmental goals and economic momentum.
Carney’s Clarity: “Yes” to Pipelines, But Not at Any Cost
In his first interview as prime minister, Carney gave his clearest endorsement yet:
“If you want a simple answer on ‘Will I support building a pipeline?’ Yes. That simple answer.”
Yet he tempered expectations, warning that pipelines alone won’t elevate Canada to “energy superpower” status. His broader plan includes blending traditional energy projects with clean, affordable innovation.
This measured support signals a shift from previous Liberal leadership, especially on controversial environmental files like the emissions cap and Bill C-69, both of which Carney indicated could be revisited.
Cabinet Members Offer Conflicting Messages
Despite Carney’s clarity, members of his newly appointed cabinet have offered a spectrum of opinions.
Steven Guilbeault, former environment minister and now Minister of Canadian Identity, questioned the need for new pipelines, citing declining long-term oil demand.
“Maybe we should maximize the use of existing infrastructure,” Guilbeault said. “As far as I know, no company is proposing an East-West pipeline.”
In contrast, Buckley Belanger, Secretary of State for Rural Development and a Saskatchewan representative, struck a more optimistic tone:
“Our prime minister is now saying provinces will have the environmental authority. This is an exciting time for our oil and gas sector.”
Industry and Provincial Leaders React Swiftly
Carney’s signals were met with guarded optimism from the provinces, many of which have clashed with federal leadership over energy policy in recent years.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith welcomed Carney’s apparent pivot but criticized what she called “mixed messages” from his cabinet.
“I hope the prime minister disavows Minister Guilbeault’s comments,” she stated, warning that internal contradictions could damage federal-provincial relations.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew both emphasized the need to fast-track “nation-building” projects and dismantle roadblocks like Bill C-69, which many provinces see as burdensome to infrastructure development.
A Defining Moment for Canada’s Energy Future
With new voices in key cabinet roles—such as Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson, a former Hydro One executive—the country’s path forward on pipelines and energy infrastructure appears uncertain but open. “I look forward to digging in,” Hodgson said, noting collaboration with Indigenous and industrial partners as essential to progress.
As political momentum builds behind new energy projects, and provinces demand autonomy and clarity, the Carney government faces a pivotal test: Can it balance economic opportunity with environmental responsibility—and maintain national unity along the way?
