THUNDER BAY – POLITICS 2.0 – Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has unveiled a regulatory reform agenda that promises to slash 25% of all federal red tape within his first two years in office, should he become Prime Minister.
Speaking in Osoyoos, BC, Poilievre described the current regulatory environment as a major drag on Canada’s economy, citing Liberal mismanagement and overregulation as key reasons for job losses and a $460 billion outflow in investment.
The plan, which includes a legislated “two-for-one” rule—requiring two regulations be eliminated for every new one added—aims to reduce the burden on businesses and taxpayers.
Additionally, Poilievre states he is proposing a cost-saving mechanism where $2 in administrative savings must be made for every $1 in new regulatory costs. To ensure accountability, he pledged to pass legislation requiring the Auditor General to verify these reductions annually.
Impact on Northwestern Ontario
These proposed regulatory changes could have particular significance for regions like Northwestern Ontario, where major resource development projects often stall due to lengthy federal approvals.
From mining expansions to infrastructure and transportation projects, Poilievre’s promise to ease regulatory burdens may resonate with business leaders and Indigenous economic development advocates in Thunder Bay and surrounding communities.
This regulatory fast track also has Indigenous leaders deeply concerned that proper and legally required by the Constitution and the courts will be bypassed to get to the resources on the traditional lands of the first peoples.
Criticism of Liberal Legacy
Poilievre sharply criticized both Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Liberal-affiliated leadership contender Mark Carney, accusing them of enabling a “Lost Liberal Decade.” He tied current economic underperformance and rising unemployment to red tape-heavy policies, like Bill C-69, which opponents argue hinders pipeline and resource development. Poilievre claimed these policies have effectively exported Canadian jobs to the U.S., giving former President Donald Trump the competitive edge.
“Trump wants to steal our jobs. Carney is helping him do it. I will bring them home,” said Poilievre.
According to the Conservative leader, federal regulatory requirements now exceed 149,000, costing Canadian businesses more than $51 billion annually. He argued that while the existing Red Tape Reduction Act mandates a one-for-one regulatory cut, the Liberals have manipulated the system—reducing the number of titles while increasing the content within each.
Looking Ahead to 2025 Election
With the next federal election getting nearer, Poilievre’s pitch is clearly designed to contrast his platform with what he characterizes as a tax-heavy, regulation-laden Liberal agenda.
His message appears crafted to appeal not just to business leaders but also to working Canadians frustrated by economic stagnation.
