Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to convene in Toronto for a series of exclusive meetings with his cabinet members over the next two days. This marks Carney’s second cabinet retreat post his victory in the spring election. The retreat will feature the presence of his new chief of staff, former Canadian ambassador to the United Nations Marc-André Blanchard, and his principal secretary David Lametti, the former justice minister.
In contrast to his predecessor Justin Trudeau, who used cabinet retreats to communicate government plans to the media, Carney’s first retreat in May at Meech Lake was held behind closed doors. However, this time, media access will be granted to the retreat location.
The agenda for the upcoming meetings on Wednesday and Thursday includes discussions on expediting major project approvals, enhancing affordable housing initiatives, bolstering the domestic defence industry, and supporting sectors impacted by U.S. tariffs. The cabinet will also delve into the preparation for the upcoming review of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement on trade, slated for 2026.
With a full plate ahead, including navigating the complexities of President Trump’s trade policies and preparing for a fall budget, Carney aims to prioritize defence spending, achieve fiscal balance, and drive economic growth through cost-saving measures.
The government is gearing up to introduce legislation to accelerate the approval process for crucial industrial projects, demonstrating a commitment to economic progress. Carney has emphasized the importance of infrastructure development and is scheduled to make significant announcements in the near future.
The Liberal caucus is scheduled to gather in Edmonton the following week, setting the stage for the Parliament’s return on September 15.