Carney says B.C. port expansion necessary to boost exports, independence

Prime Minister Mark Carney has endorsed a proposal to expand the Port of Vancouver's Roberts Bank Terminal 2, citing its necessity for meeting Canada's economic growth and diversification goals over the next decade. Carney visited Global Container Terminals' Deltaport facility in Delta, B.C., to express his support for the expansion.

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The federal government is looking to invest about $10 billion, more than $10 billion, to help expand the port, grow our exports away from the United States by more than 50 per cent, create over 17,000 jobs, 18,000 jobs in the construction of that (and) another 17,000 jobs, full-time, in the operation of that additional capacity.

Carney emphasized that enhancing the port's capacity and related infrastructure is crucial for Canada to achieve greater independence and increase trade with Asian countries. This expansion aims to shift exports away from reliance on the United States. Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon recently referred the plan for potential fast-tracking through Canada's Major Projects Office.

The project includes plans for a new three-berth terminal designed to boost the port's container capacity by 50 percent. MacKinnon stated that this expansion could unlock $100 billion in new trade capacity annually. Carney described the project as a "tremendous opportunity" to strengthen Canada's independence and resilience, projecting the creation of approximately 17,000 to 18,000 construction jobs and an additional 17,000 full-time operational jobs.

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The project includes a proposal for a new three-berth terminal that would increase the port’s container capacity by 50 per cent, with MacKinnon saying the expansion would enable $100 billion in new trade capacity annually.

Despite the government's backing, the expansion has faced opposition from environmental groups concerned about its potential impact on the habitat of endangered southern resident killer whales. The government has stated it is working with local First Nations to ensure shared economic benefits and robust environmental protections. Consultations with Indigenous communities regarding the expansion plan are set to begin immediately through the Major Projects Office. The proposal also aligns with considerations for Alberta's West Coast oil pipeline, which would terminate at Roberts Bank.

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Carney says the port’s expansion is a “tremendous opportunity” to strengthen Canada’s independence and resilience while creating jobs.