NDP amends Bill-5 to support good-paying union jobs for Canadians

OTTAWA — In Wednesday's parliamentary committee on transportation, NDP MP Leah Gazan (Winnipeg Centre) secured changes that would prioritize creating good-paying union jobs for Canadians in the government’s major project legislation, Bill C-5. While a step towards addressing the bill’s problems, Gazan says the bill still requires major changes to uphold the rights of workers and Indigenous peoples, public health and environmental protections.

“New Democrats fully support building a strong economy—one rooted in good-paying, union jobs that support families and communities. But that growth must be grounded in respect for workers’ rights, Indigenous rights, and environmental protections,” said Gazan. “We were the only party that put forward amendments to bill C-5 to protect good union jobs—because creating jobs shouldn’t mean cutting corners. It should mean creating unionized, good-paying work that drives real, sustainable growth—not opening the door to a race to the bottom.”

Over the past week, New Democrats stood with Indigenous leaders, environmental advocates, and health organizations to call out the Carney government and the Conservatives for teaming up to rush Bill C-5 through Parliament despite their serious concerns.

“If we’re serious about rebuilding the economy and creating long-term prosperity, we need to pass legislation that upholds our constitution and strengthens communities—not divide and endanger them. The NDP is calling on the government to slow down, consult meaningfully with Indigenous peoples, workers, civil society groups and environmental organizations, and get this bill right. Fast-tracking legislation without engagement isn’t leadership—it’s negligence. Canadians deserve better.”