A new agreement between Ottawa and Nova Scotia is aimed at speeding up approvals for major infrastructure and energy developments.
Prime Minister Mark Carney and Premier Tim Houston signed the deal during the Prime Minister’s visit to Halifax.
The agreement introduces a “one project, one review” model, allowing projects that require both federal and provincial approval to go through a single, coordinated process instead of two separate ones.
Officials say the change is meant to reduce duplication, shorten timelines, and provide more certainty for developers and investors.
The move is expected to benefit large-scale projects like Wind West, an offshore wind initiative that would require new transmission infrastructure to move energy beyond Nova Scotia. The project has the potential to supply a significant portion of Canada’s electricity needs.
Carney says the agreement will allow governments to “build big and build fast,” while Premier Houston says it will help “unlock the many benefits” of the province’s energy sector while maintaining environmental protections.
The agreement is now in effect, with decisions on which projects follow the streamlined process to be made on a case-by-case basis.
Halifax mayor highlights infrastructure, defence investments
During the visit, Prime Minister Mark Carney also met with Halifax Mayor Andy Fillmore.
Fillmore says the two discussed the need for infrastructure to support housing, along with Ottawa’s plans for increased defence spending in the region.
“I look forward to the incredible changes that will happen in Halifax as a result of these investments, including housing and housing infrastructure to support all the new workers that will be here,” Fillmore said in a video posted to social media.
Earlier in the visit, the federal government announced $3 billion in military-related spending in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, including investments in facilities, training and housing.
Carney concludes N.S. tour in Pubnico
The Prime Minister then visited Pubnico, Yarmouth County.
Dozens lined the Dennis Point Wharf and Cafe Friday for handshakes and selfies with Mark Carney.
Acadie-Annapolis MP Chris d’Entremont believes it’s the first time a Prime Minister has visited the community.
“He puts importance on rural Canada to understand their needs. There are a number of things they’ve talked about and continue to focus on, and the fishery is one of them,” said d’Entremont.
Carney also threw some bait onto a boat, and chatted with local lobster fishers.
-with files Kevin Northup
