Poilievre promises ‘Canada First’ energy corridor to end US dependence

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre pledged on Monday to establish a “Canada First” National Energy Corridor to reduce reliance on the United States and increase Canada’s economic independence. 

Poilievre said the plan would fast-track approvals for pipelines, rail lines, and other key infrastructure within a pre-approved transport route running entirely in Canada.

“After the Lost Liberal decade, Canada is poorer, weaker, and more dependent on the Americans than ever,” said Poilievre. 

“My corridor will let us stand on our own two feet and stand up to Trump.”

The proposal promises legally binding commitments from all levels of government to swiftly greenlight projects in the corridor, ending the “regulatory limbo” Poilievre blames for stalling development. 

It also involves First Nations from the beginning, ensuring they benefit economically and grant consent before any money is spent.

According to Poilievre, 16 major energy projects were cancelled between 2015 and 2020, costing the economy $176 billion. 

Poilievre pointed out that the Liberals Bill C-69 “No-New-Pipelines” law has made it nearly impossible to build crucial infrastructure. 

Meanwhile, the Parliamentary Budget Officer projects the “Carney cap” on energy will cut production by five percent and reduce GDP by $20.5 billion annually by 2032, eliminating more than 54,000 full-time jobs.

Poilievre pointed out that 98% of Canada’s crude oil exports go to the US, leaving the country vulnerable to American pressure. 

He also accuses Liberal Leader and Prime Minister Mark Carney of undermining Canadian energy, while profiting from overseas pipelines.

“The choice is clear,” said Poilievre. 

“A fourth Liberal term of cancelled projects and American dependence, or a Conservative government that puts Canada first.”