Day One | December 9, 2024
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CSIS to Share Foreign Interference Information with Opposition Leader Without Security Clearance
The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) announced that it will disclose select information about?foreign interference to Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre?through a threat reduction measure, despite his lack of security clearance. This development follows Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's October request for intelligence services to brief Poilievre on foreign interference allegations involving the Conservative Party. The decision addresses an ongoing dispute where Poilievre has resisted obtaining security clearance, arguing it would restrict his ability to speak openly about the information, while CSIS typically shares classified information only with security-cleared individuals.
Canadian Political Leaders Divided Over Response to Trump's Tariff Threat
Prime Minister met with opposition leaders to discuss his recent Florida meeting with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who has threatened to impose 25 percent tariffs on Canadian goods unless Canada addresses border security concerns. While Trudeau called for unity, Conservative Leader Pierre?Poilievre criticized the government's border policies, leading to public disagreement between the two leaders on how to address the situation. The conflict emerges as recent data shows irregular border crossings from Canada to the United States have increased significantly, with 25,000 crossings recorded this year, prompting the Liberal government to announce plans to purchase additional border monitoring equipment.?
Canada Introduces New Arctic Strategy Focusing on U.S. Partnership and Security Threats
The Canadian?government unveiled an Arctic policy?emphasizing increased security cooperation with the United States and introducing the term "North American Arctic" to reflect strengthened bilateral relations. Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly announced the strategy, which includes $34.7-million in new funding over five years, plans for an Arctic ambassador, and new consulates in Alaska and Greenland, as Canada responds to growing Russian-Chinese military cooperation in the region. The policy addresses multiple challenges including climate change impacts on shipping routes, mineral exploration opportunities, and security concerns stemming from increased Russian-Chinese joint military exercises in Arctic waters, while also promising to strengthen Indigenous communities and expand Canada's military presence in the North.
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Alberta Aims to Attract $100 Billion in Data Centre Infrastructure by 2029
Alberta Technology Minister Nate Glubish has announced a plan to?attract $100 billion in artificial intelligence data centres to the province over the next five years, with around a dozen companies currently exploring development opportunities. These facilities are used to develop and train large-scale artificial intelligence models for companies such as Meta and Google. Since data centres consume significant amounts of electricity, the province plans to leverage its deregulated electricity market, which allows off-grid power generation, to meet their energy demands. According to the Royal Bank of Canada's Climate Action Institute, these facilities could account for 14 percent of Canada's total power consumption by 2030. However, the Alberta government has emphasized that these developments will not compromise grid reliability for residents. The newly launched "concierge program" aims to encourage companies to establish operations in Alberta, creating jobs and generating tax revenue.
Alberta Legislature Concludes Fall Session with 13 Bills Passed, Including Major Policy Changes
The Alberta legislature?concluded its 19-day fall session on December 4, 2024, passing 13 government bills that include significant policy changes. Much of the legislation saw little debate, owing partially to opposition leader Naheed Nenshi still not having a seat in the chamber. Notable legislation included restrictions on gender-affirming healthcare for youth, changes to pronoun use in schools, and the addition of two new electoral ridings to accommodate population growth. Premier Danielle Smith announced plans to reconvene in February 2024 for the next provincial budget presentation, which is expected in the last week of February. Last week the Government of Alberta launched an?online budget consuatation survey.
Alberta Implements New Geographic Restrictions on Renewable Energy Projects
Alberta announced new regulations on prohibiting wind projects within a 70,000-square-kilometre?buffer zone near the Rocky Mountains and requiring special approval for solar projects on prime agricultural land. The regulations, which take immediate effect, mandate visual impact assessments for renewable projects in select areas covering 82,000 square kilometres and require developers to provide upfront reclamation costs through security bonds starting January 1. The changes follow Premier Danielle Smith's "agriculture first" approach announced in February after a seven-month moratorium on project approvals in 2023.?
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Nova Scotia Premier in Boston for trade talks ahead of one-day legislative sitting
The first full week of Premier Houston’s new mandate was largely spent in Boston where he attended business meetings to leverage and strengthen partnerships in the U.S. and hosted a reception ‘to promote and showcase the province and its exporters, including those from the agri-food and beverage sectors.’? The Premier announced the first session of the 65th General Assembly of the Nova Scotia Legislature will?convene, for one day only on December 10, for the election of a speaker and appointment of a deputy speaker or speakers.? Cabinet is expected to be sworn in later this week. With the PCs having secured 43 seats in the provincial election, many ministers from Houston’s first majority government are expected to return to cabinet roles. However, a larger caucus and historic wins, including Acadian MLAs and the first Mi’kmaq MLA, along with regional representation needs, will likely influence appointments. Allan MacMaster’s departure opens a potential spot for another Cape Breton MLA, for which Fred Tilley, a former Liberal who crossed the floor, has expressed interest. ? Recounts are set for two ridings narrowly won by the PCs. In Yarmouth, Liberal Leader Zach Churchill, who lost by just 14 votes to Nick Hilton, has requested a recount scheduled for December 10. In Annapolis, David Bowlby’s seven-vote win over Liberal incumbent Carman Kerr has triggered an automatic recount. Elections Nova Scotia has announced the recount deadlines have passed, leaving these as the final reviews of the election results.
Newfoundland and Labrador Legislative Sitting Concludes
The fall session of Newfoundland and Labrador’s House of Assembly?wrapped?up on December 5, with Government House Leader John Hogan emphasizing legislation aimed at promoting health, well-being, and public safety. Government bills passed included amendments to the?Crown Lands Act?to streamline applications and support long-term land possession, fostering housing development and affordability. New supports for workers with long-term illnesses or injuries were also introduced, providing up to 27 weeks of job-protected leave annually, or 104 weeks for injuries related to criminal offences. Public safety measures included $40 million in funding for justice system upgrades, stricter penalties for animal cruelty, and restrictions on law enforcement replicas. Premier Andrew Furey also highlighted the importance of advancing provincial priorities while himself from his federal counterparts, though he supported initiatives like $10-a-day childcare and the GST/HST tax break set to begin on December 15. ? Opposition leaders were?critical?of the length of the fall session with PC leader Tony Wakeham stating that the parliamentary calendar needs to be expanded. NDP leader Jim Dinn expressed concerns with the appointment of a new information and privacy commissioner, after MHAs debated for hours their concerns with the lack of transparency in the process. While the spring session is scheduled for March 3, Furey has not ruled out an election before that date.
Holt government clarifies eligibility for $10,000 nursing retention bonus
Premier Susan Holt is fulfilling a key campaign promise by?providing?$10,000 retention bonuses to nearly 10,000 nurses across the province in an attempt to address ongoing shortages. The bonuses, which will cost the province $83 million, will be distributed before the end of the year to nurses in hospitals, home care, and Ambulance New Brunswick, with long-term care nurses receiving their payments in January. The government has signed agreements with several unions, although negotiations with CUPE for licensed practical nurses in nursing homes are still?ongoing. After initial confusion about who was? eligible, the Premier confirmed that both unionized and non-unionized licensed practical nurses will receive the bonuses, but that casual nurses and some that special care home employees will not. Premier Holt also promised a further $5,000 bonus in 2025 to encourage nurses to stay in the workforce.
P.E.I.’s NHL deal continues to draw criticism
While the legislative session has ended, P.E.I. MLAs continue to have a long list of questions for the Premier and Minister of Tourism. During a committee meeting on Friday, MLAs requested a lengthy list of documents and information related to the King government’s controversial $7.5-$8.4 million promotional?deal?with the NHL. These documents include travel expenses, receipts, emails, and guest lists, as well as any other details that could clarify the overall cost and effectiveness of the deal. The deal, which spans three years, includes promoting P.E.I. as the official NHL travel destination and potentially hosting the 2026 NHL awards. Initially presented as a $2.5 million contract, the full financial details were only released after a legislative subpoena, leading to accusations that the government misled the public about the deal's true cost and its benefits.
New Brunswick receives $1 billion in federal funding to help meet electricity needs
On December 8, Minister’s Steven Guilbeault and Dominic LeBlanc?announced?over $1 billion for six projects aimed at helping New Brunswick keep up with electricity demand. The investment includes facilitating Indigenous-led wind projects, enabling seven Mi’kmaq Nations to participate in clean energy opportunities, a commitment from the federal government to work with the province and NB Power to support the conversion of the Belledune Generating Station from coal-fired power to biomass, and predevelopment work for new small modular reactor capacity at the Point Lepreau and the modified Atlantic Loop transmission line. The Ministers also announced that they have reached an understanding with the Government of New Brunswick on the upcoming Clean Electricity Regulations to support clean energy growth while maintaining energy affordability.
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Conservatives Take the Lead as B.C. NDP Falls Behind on Economy
The B.C. Conservatives?gained an edge over the NDP this week?by meeting with seven industry associations to address economic concerns, including job losses, lagging private sector employment, and affordability. Conservative jobs critic Gavin Dew emphasized collaboration and a focus on private sector growth, contrasting with the NDP’s slower response to these issues since the election. Meanwhile, NDP Energy Minister Adrian Dix stood out at the First Nations Energy Summit, highlighting urgency in clean energy partnerships with Indigenous groups. Despite these efforts, the government faces criticism for its overall post-election pace in tackling economic challenges.
Plans for $1B B.C. Battery Plant Paused Amid Global Market Shifts
A $1-billion lithium-ion battery plant in Maple Ridge, B.C., planned by Taiwan Cement Corp.’s E-One Moli,?has been shelved as the company shifts focus to optimizing production in Taiwan. Announced in 2023 with $284.5 million in federal and provincial funding, the project promised 350 new jobs but was paused due to global market uncertainties and declining EV battery demand. Both federal and provincial officials expressed disappointment but emphasized Canada’s commitment to advancing its electric vehicle strategy. Experts highlight challenges in the EV market, including high battery costs and reduced incentives, but remain optimistic about long-term growth.
Enbridge Cancels Northern B.C. Pipeline Amid Market Shifts and Strategic Reassessment
Enbridge Inc. has?canceled its proposed Westcoast Connector Gas Transmission (WCGT) project, a planned natural gas pipeline in northern British Columbia intended to support LNG export terminals near Prince Rupert. The decision follows the expiration of the project's environmental certificate on November 25 and the lack of an LNG export partner after Shell and other stakeholders shifted focus. While Enbridge will not proceed with WCGT, it continues to expand its BC Pipeline system and invest in projects like Woodfibre LNG. The company cited market conditions and strategic reassessments as reasons for halting the project.
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Ontario Launches U.S. Ad Campaign to Highlight Economic Ties
On Monday, Ontario?launched?a multimillion-dollar advertising campaign in the United States highlighting the economic and cultural connections between the province and its southern neighbour. The campaign focuses on Ontario’s role in supplying energy and critical minerals to the U.S. economy as well as the significant volume of bilateral trade that positions Ontario as the U.S.’s third-largest trading partner and the top export destination for 17 states. On Wednesday, Premier Ford?appeared?on Fox News to promote the province’s close relations with the U.S., where he called President-elect Trump’s proposed tariff on Canada “unfortunate,” suggesting that U.S. tariffs should instead focus on China and Mexico. ?
Ontario Auditor General Flags Rule Violations and Cost Overruns in Ontario Place Redevelopment?
In her annual report released on Tuesday, Ontario Auditor General Shelley Spence?foundthat the Ontario government’s process of awarding the contract to redevelop Ontario Place to Austria’s Therme Group was “not fair, transparent, or accountable to all participants,” did not follow “best practices for large-scale, modern land-use development projects,” and violated the province’s own rules. The report also revealed that the project’s cost has surged to $2.24 billion – $1.8 billion more than the government’s original estimate. Spence recommended that Ontario strengthen its procurement practices for similar projects in the future.
Ontario Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie Criticizes Carbon Tax and Highlights Key Promises at Fundraiser
At the Ontario Liberal Party’s first Leader’s fundraising dinner in eight years, Bonnie Crombie?voiced?her opposition to the federal government’s carbon tax. She also pledged to implement permanent income tax cuts rather than issuing rebate cheques, in contrast to the federal and provincial government’s plans to distribute $250 and $200 cheques, respectively. Furthermore, Crombie accused Premier Ford of failing to address gridlock and homelessness, while emphasizing her commitment to ensuring every Ontario resident has a family doctor within four years. The event raised $1.65 million for the Ontario Liberal campaign.
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Toronto Police Seek Budget Increase to Expand Services in 2025
The Toronto Police Service (TPS) has proposed a?3.9% increase?in its operating budget, amounting to $46.2 million, for 2025. If approved, the total budget would be $1.22 billion. Key priorities include implementing a five-year hiring plan to add 720 officers over two years, strengthening the Neighbourhood Community Officer Program in four new areas, and addressing delays in 9-1-1 response times by recruiting 90 additional operators. The new budget will be reviewed by the Toronto Police Service Board and city council in early 2025. Mayor Olivia Chow has expressed her?support?for the budget increase, citing challenges last year and the need for increased police officers.
Toronto Proposes Cap on Ride-Hailing Amidst Congestion Concerns
Toronto city staff have recommended capping the number of ride-hailing drivers for companies like Uber and Lyft at?80,429—the current number registered—citing concerns about congestion, emissions, and transit ridership. The proposal will be debated by the city’s executive committee and suggests a "one-in, one-out" system, exempting drivers of zero-emission or wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Critics, including Uber, argue the cap could raise wait times and fares, while supporters highlight its potential to improve driver earnings and reduce empty driving. Mayor Olivia Chow supports the cap, emphasizing its necessity for curbing congestion and environmental impact.
Milton Approves 9.89% Tax Hike Amid Controversy
Milton Town Council approved a?9.89%?local tax increase, raising average property tax bills by $49.87 per $100,000 of assessment. Critics, including Mayor Gord Krantz, opposed the decision, citing a projected 40% tax hike over the council’s term. Proponents defended the budget, highlighting essential investments in fire services, transit, and infrastructure. Some cuts, like discretionary spending, were proposed but not adopted. The $222.3 million operating budget supports daily services, while the $139.5 million capital plan focuses on new and rehabilitated infrastructure. Final tax rates await Halton Region’s decision.
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Quebec Proposes Public Work Mandate for New Doctors
The Quebec government has?introduced Bill 83, requiring newly trained doctors to work exclusively in the public healthcare system for their first five years to address the growing shift to private practice. The law, presented by Health Minister Christian Dubé, imposes steep penalties for violations, ranging from $20,000 to $100,000 per day, doubling for repeat offenses. With private-only physicians increasing by 70% since 2020, the policy aims to retain publicly funded expertise. While opposition parties and medical associations broadly support the initiative, concerns about its fairness and legality, particularly for current students, persist. The bill comes amidst negotiations with medical federations and excludes the use of the notwithstanding clause for now. As the debate unfolds, this legislation marks a significant step in restructuring Quebec’s healthcare workforce and ensuring public access to medical services.
Quebec to Strengthen Laicity in Schools Following Investigations
The Quebec government’s Education Minister Bernard Drainville plans to introduce?legislation reinforcing laicity in public schools?after investigations revealed violations of the province's secularism laws in 17 schools across regions like Montreal, Laval, and Saguenay. The schools face scrutiny for religious practices, such as prayers and culturally influenced pedagogy, which contravene the principles of state neutrality, equality, and freedom of conscience. Drainville emphasized the psychological impact on students and vowed to ensure schools embody Quebec values, including gender equality. A report on these cases is expected in January, with potential disciplinary measures forthcoming.
PQ Prepares for Post-Victory Sovereignty Referendum in 2026
The Parti Québécois (PQ) is?laying the groundwork for a sovereignty referendum?shortly after a potential electoral victory in 2026, as outlined in an internal document. Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon has reaffirmed his commitment to holding a referendum within the party's first mandate, a promise dating back to the 2022 election. The PQ’s national executive has adopted a "2025-2030 Funding Principles" plan to build substantial reserves for both electoral and referendum campaigns, with a 2025 fundraising target of $1.4 million and $2.4 million for 2026. Constituency associations must develop citizen mobilization plans to promote independence, with specific financial goals based on electoral potential. If victorious, the party plans to immediately launch a referendum campaign, leveraging increased electoral momentum and resources. The PQ’s strategy reflects growing confidence as it leads in recent polls and prepares for a significantly more competitive 2026 election compared to its survival-focused 2022 campaign.
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