Skepticism surrounds Prime Minister Mark Carney's commitment to expedite development in Canada. Critics argue that the true test of his intentions will come if he approves Alberta Premier Danielle Smith's proposal for a new pipeline. This pipeline would transport Alberta bitumen to the northern coast of British Columbia. While Smith does not plan to oversee the construction herself, she aims to initiate early planning and secure federal fast-track status, which aligns with Carney's development strategy.

Smith intends to transfer the project to a private sector entity before construction begins. The rationale is that obtaining a private-sector partner will be more feasible once the federal government grants its approval. This approach is part of the framework established by Bill C-5, which allows the cabinet to suspend most federal laws to facilitate projects deemed in the national interest. Initially, the bill did not include any exceptions, but changes were made after concerns were raised about the potential for corruption by allowing the suspension of laws like the Criminal Code and the Conflict of Interest Act.

Despite these adjustments, the risk of corruption remains, as the government can still selectively fast-track certain projects while neglecting broader regulatory reforms. Indigenous considerations will still play a role in decisions regarding port expansions. The coordination of these projects will fall to the newly established Major Projects Office, led by former TransAlta Corp. CEO Dawn Farrell, who will earn $577,000 annually.

Critics describe this arrangement as cronyism, where the federal government chooses which projects to support, suspends laws for those projects, and compensates allies generously. Alberta's efforts to navigate this system should not be viewed as a threat to national unity, despite some framing it that way.

However, there are already signs of frustration from Alberta. Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson has stated that Alberta requires British Columbia's approval to proceed with the pipeline. He emphasized that the province must secure support from both B.C. and Indigenous groups. "The proponent, in this case the province of Alberta, needs to attract that (support) if they want to build," he said. This assertion has been challenged, as the ultimate decision lies with the federal government.

B.C. Premier David Eby has expressed opposition to the pipeline and supports maintaining a tanker ban on the northern coast, which is also a federal jurisdiction. The Major Projects Office is expected to provide a decision in five months. Overall, the federal government appears to be attempting to balance its business-friendly image while managing the ambitions of regional leaders. Critics argue that Canada needs to embrace bold investment ideas rather than stifle them under bureaucratic constraints.