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New Energy Minister Signals Shift Toward Fast-Tracking Canadian Resource Development
Canada’s new energy minister is signalling a sharp change in tone from Ottawa when it comes to resource development, promising fewer delays, clearer timelines and a more collaborative relationship with the country’s energy sector.
Tim Hodgson, sworn las week, used his first major address at the Calgary Chamber of Commerce to tell industry leaders that the federal government will shift from red tape to results. The former Goldman Sachs executive said Canada is at a critical moment and must embrace both conventional and clean energy to become a global superpower in the field.
“In the new economy we are building, Canada will no longer be defined by delay. We will be defined by delivery,” Hodgson told the crowd. He committed to fast-tracking projects of national interest, saying that lengthy five-year reviews would be replaced with firm two-year timelines. “Less red tape, more certainty, better outcomes,” he said.
His message marks a departure from what many in the energy sector have seen as years of federal indifference or obstruction. Lisa Baiton, president and CEO of the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers, said she was encouraged by the shift.
“For a very long time, nobody has acknowledged how critically important the Canadian oil and gas sector is for Canadian sovereignty, national security and our economic productivity,” said Baiton. “We’re cautiously optimistic, but this is a clear tone shift.”
The Calgary Chamber of Commerce echoed that sentiment, calling Hodgson’s visit a sign that Ottawa is serious about mending fences with industry. “It was a real testament to the minister that he chose to come here so soon after being sworn in to reset the relationship between Ottawa and the energy sector,” said Deborah Yedlin, president and CEO of the Chamber.
Others in the industry, including Enserva, say they’re hopeful but watching closely. “We have some hope at the moment, but we’re going to be watching to make sure that the minister and the government live up to what they’re promising,” said Craig Watt, vice-president of operations.
Hodgson’s private-sector credentials and ties to Alberta’s energy industry are seen as strengths by some policy observers. But questions remain about whether the broader federal government will follow his lead. “He’s a great guy to have in that role, but the bigger question is will the whole of government take the same approach?” said Martha Hall Findlay, director of the School of Public Policy at the University of Calgary.
Hodgson emphasized that any new energy projects must still meet consultation requirements and be carried out responsibly. He framed the push for energy development as part of Canada’s broader response to a volatile global landscape, including rising trade tensions.
“We did not ask for this trade war, but if we are going to be in a trade war, we are going to win,” Hodgson said, referring to the economic instability sparked by tariffs and protectionist policies south of the border. “It’s high time we trade more with people who share our values, not just our borders.”
Hodgson’s remarks appear to have opened the door to renewed collaboration between Alberta’s oilpatch and the federal government. What remains to be seen is how quickly that rhetoric will turn into real-world projects, investments and policy clarity.
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