SKEENA REGION — Prime Minister Mark Carney swept into Ottawa with a record-breaking 67% approval rating and a promise to build a “One Canadian Economy.” In his first months, he has cut taxes, repealed the carbon tax, and fast-tracked national infrastructure plans. Across Canada, the honeymoon glow still lingers — but here in Northern BC, from Prince Rupert to Hazelton, the question is more grounded: Will any of this reach us?
A Record Start in Ottawa
Carney’s first acts as Prime Minister moved quickly:
- Carbon Tax Repeal — Eliminated the federal consumer carbon tax as of April 1, 2025.
- Income Tax Cut — Dropped the lowest federal bracket from 15% to 14%, saving households hundreds annually.
- GST Relief — Removed GST for first-time homebuyers.
The centrepiece, the One Canadian Economy Act (Bill C-5), passed in June, aims to slash project approval times from five years to two, remove interprovincial trade barriers, and fast-track “nation-building” projects like highways, ports, rail, and energy infrastructure. The legislation also doubled the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program to $10 billion, signalling a focus on partnership.
What Northern BC Has Seen So Far
While Skeena hasn’t landed a headline-grabbing mega-project, the Carney government has quietly invested in the North:
- BC Hydro Upgrades — $156.8M for eight electricity infrastructure projects, including new capacitor stations on the 500 kV line from Prince George to Terrace, boosting grid reliability and clean energy capacity.
- Great Bear Sea Marine Protection Fund — $200M federal share in a $335M Indigenous-led plan to protect marine ecosystems, create conservation jobs, and support coastal stewardship.
- Food Security — Federal funding for greenhouses, school farms, and containerized food production in remote communities, including nearly $1M recently approved for northern greenhouse operations.
- Hydrogen & Clean-Tech — PacifiCan support for BC’s hydrogen economy, including $150K to Prince George to develop a hydrogen hub along Highway 16 to Prince Rupert.
These investments matter for long-term growth — but many residents say the benefits aren’t yet visible in daily life.
The Skeena’s Unmet Priorities
Local leaders point to three needs that require more direct attention:
- Transportation — Highway 16 upgrades, port expansions, and better airport infrastructure to support trade and safety.
- Housing — Affordable builds for workers and families as industry grows.
- Healthcare — Investments to shorten wait times and retain specialists in rural communities.
The Political Window
Carney’s popularity gives him rare political capital — but it’s time-limited. In April’s federal election, Skeena–Bulkley Valley shifted to Conservative Ellis Ross with 47% of the vote, proving northern voters will change course if they feel left out.
For Carney to win lasting goodwill here, his government will need to pair investment with visibility — delivering tangible, clearly communicated wins that residents can see, use, and feel in their communities.
For now, Carney’s image remains polished. The real test will be whether that shine reaches the Skeena.
