Prime Minister Mark Carney is preparing to unveil a second series of significant projects aimed at advancing the country’s infrastructure. The upcoming announcement is expected to include multiple initiatives, with a focus on critical mineral extraction, liquefied natural gas (LNG) exportation, and a transmission project, as per sources familiar with the matter.
Among the projects slated for announcement are the Sisson Mine in New Brunswick, the Crawford Nickel project in Ontario, and the Ksi Lisims LNG project in British Columbia. Additionally, the list will feature the Iqaluit hydro project and the Nouveau Monde Graphite Phase 2 project in Quebec. Two more projects are yet to be disclosed, one of which is anticipated to involve transmission infrastructure.
The official list of projects has not been released and remains subject to potential alterations. The selection of major projects is integral to the government’s strategy of revitalizing the Canadian economy amidst trade challenges and productivity issues.
Three of the proposed projects, including the Sisson Mine, Nouveau Monde Graphite mine, and Crawford Nickel mine, are centered on critical minerals. Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson is scheduled to reveal details about the Crawford project in Timmins, Ont., later this week. The Crawford project has already passed the feasibility stage and is poised to create significant job opportunities upon completion.
Furthermore, the federal government’s commitment to promoting strategic investments in critical minerals is underscored by the allocation of $2 billion over five years to a new “critical minerals sovereign fund.” An Inuit-owned clean energy initiative in Iqaluit is also expected to be part of the upcoming project list, following a $6 million investment earlier this year.
Prime Minister Carney has emphasized that the Major Projects Office will maintain a dynamic list, with continual additions to support ongoing economic development efforts. The evolving nature of the initiative aims to foster sustained growth and progress across various sectors.