Governments sign environmental assessment co-operation agreement

Release

Department of Environment and Local Government, Office of the Premier

December 16, 2025

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The provincial and federal governments have signed an agreement on a co-ordinated approach to environmental impact assessments for major projects.

“We’re proud to work with the federal government to create a strong and co-ordinated approach on major projects in New Brunswick,” said Premier Susan Holt. “Our province already has a strong, evidence-based environmental impact assessment process, and Ottawa’s recognition of that strength allows us to create more efficiency without compromising the environmental protections New Brunswickers expect.”

The agreement implements the "one project, one review" approach, when possible, for all major projects in New Brunswick that require federal and provincial assessments. This is expected to result in faster project approvals and improved efficiency by reducing duplication. Federal responsibilities will continue to be addressed through federal agencies’ participation in New Brunswick’s environmental impact assessment technical review committee.

“Major projects move forward best when all orders of government work together,” said federal Internal Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc, who is also president of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs and One Canadian Economy. “This co-operation agreement between our two governments will drive real progress – create good jobs, strengthen local industries and build long-term economic growth for communities across the province.”

LeBlanc spoke on behalf of federal Environment, Climate Change and Nature Minister Julie Dabrusin.

The agreement acknowledges the importance of meaningful consultation and collaboration with Indigenous Peoples throughout the assessment process. It commits each government to share expertise, capacity and best practices. It also promotes co-ordinated communication, permitting and sharing of information throughout the assessment process.

“New Brunswick’s environmental impact assessment process is science-based and guided by an expert review committee, including local, provincial and federal agencies, which ensures all questions and feedback are addressed before final decisions are made,” said Environment and Climate Change Minister Gilles LePage. “It was important to us that the integrity of process remained strong.”

Indigenous groups, the public, industry and other stakeholders contributed feedback that helped shape the agreement.

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Environment and natural resources