As the Canadian House of Commons wrapped up its activities for the year 2025, it was evident that the government under Prime Minister Mark Carney faced difficulties in advancing priority legislation. With a total of just 72 sitting days, which is below the average, the House of Commons ended the year with only a single bill into law, excluding the routine spending bills. This situation is attributed to the lack of a formal partner for the Liberals in the Commons, which hampers their ability to shut down debates and expedite the legislative process.
A Look at the Legislative Accomplishments
During a session that lasted four weeks from late May to late June, MPs approved Bill C-5, which led to the creation of a new Major Projects Office and related powers to fast-track large infrastructure projects. This bill also included federal moves to eliminate internal trade barriers. However, since MPs and senators returned from the summer break in September, Parliament has only managed to pass one bill into law, apart from the routine spending bills necessary for the government’s operation.
Important Bills and their Status
A number of important bills were discussed and debated during these sessions. Here’s an overview of where things stand:
C-2, the Strong Borders Act
The omnibus bill C-2 proposed a number of measures aimed at tightening immigration and bolstering border security. However, the bill faced opposition from civil-liberties and human-rights groups, leading Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree to introduce a slimmed-down version known as Bill C-12.
C-3, the Citizenship Act
Bill C-3, also known as the “Lost Canadians” bill, was passed into law, allowing Canadians born outside the country to pass on their citizenship to future generations born abroad. The government estimates that approximately 115,000 could gain citizenship as a result of this change.
C-4, the Making Life More Affordable Act
Bill C-4 proposed a package of tax changes, including a broad-based income-tax cut and a temporary GST rebate on new housing for first-time homebuyers. This bill is currently in the Senate after being approved by the House of Commons.
C-5, the One Canadian Economy Act
Bill C-5, central to the Liberal government’s agenda, created the Major Projects Office and eliminated federal barriers to internal trade. The bill received royal assent on June 26.
Legislation Introduced in the Senate
Several important bills were also introduced in the Senate, including S-2, which seeks to amend the Indian Act to address registration entitlements, S-3, which aims to update Canadian laws governing trade-related devices, and S-4, which seeks to modernize the Energy Efficiency Act.
Although Parliament’s productivity in the past year was below average, these legislative actions reveal continued efforts to address critical issues affecting Canadians. It remains to be seen how the government will navigate the legislative process in the coming year to advance its policy priorities.
