SoVote

Bill C-245

44th Parl. 1st Sess.

June 22, 2022

Bill C-245 is a proposed law that would change the Canada Infrastructure Bank Act. The purpose of the Bank would be refocused to prioritize certain investments and infrastructure projects. These priorities include investments from public institutions, all levels of government, and Indigenous communities, infrastructure projects that address climate change, and projects that are environmentally friendly. The proposed law would also require the Bank to include members recommended by Indigenous organizations on its board and submit an annual report on priority investments and projects. Additionally, there are provisions to protect privileged information obtained by the Bank.

A steelman argument in favor of Bill C-245, An Act to amend the Canada Infrastructure Bank Act, is that it addresses the urgent need for prioritizing certain investments and infrastructure projects. By refocusing the purpose of the Bank, the amendment ensures that it invests in projects that are in the public interest, support climate change mitigation or adaptation, and contribute to the sustainability of infrastructure in Canada. This amendment recognizes the importance of addressing climate change and protecting the environment, which are crucial for the long-term well-being and prosperity of the country. Additionally, the inclusion of Indigenous organizations in the membership of the Board ensures that the interests of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities are represented and taken into account. Lastly, the requirement for the Bank to submit an annual report on the investments and projects to which priority was given promotes

A steelman argument opposing Bill C-245 could be as follows: Bill C-245 seeks to amend the Canada Infrastructure Bank Act by refocusing the purpose of the bank and giving priority to certain investments and infrastructure projects. However, such amendments may have unintended negative consequences. Firstly, by giving priority to investments from public institutions, all levels of government, and Indigenous communities, there is a risk of excluding private sector participation in infrastructure projects. Private sector involvement brings innovation, efficiency, and competition, which can lead to better outcomes for infrastructure development. By solely focusing on public institutions, there is a possibility of limiting the range of expertise and resources available for such projects. Secondly, prioritizing infrastructure projects that propose measures aimed at mitigating or adapting to climate change may inadvertently neglect other im