Gov. Gen. Mary Simon says major projects push can coexist with reconciliation

By Canadian Press on September 29, 2025.

OTTAWA — Gov. Gen. Mary Simon says reconciliation hasn’t returned to the back burner as the country pushes forward to develop major projects.

In an interview just ahead of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Simon tells The Canadian Press she sees a firm commitment to ensure Indigenous Peoples are involved as the major projects process evolves.

The major projects legislation that passed in June received widespread condemnation from Indigenous leaders who feared it wouldn’t respect their rights to free, prior and informed consent.

The bill allows the federal government to sidestep existing laws and select projects to fast track for development with cabinet approval.

Simon says there has been much discussion in recent months about increasing development in the country and removing interprovincial trade barriers, which she sees as a sign the country is coming together with reconciliation at the top of mind.

She says there has been a commitment for governments and businesses to work with Indigenous Peoples, and that Indigenous Peoples need strong economies to thrive and survive.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 29, 2025.

Alessia Passafiume, The Canadian Press