Building Left

Predetermined Outcomes with Consultation Theatre? The NDP & Bill C-5.

In this episode, Jaime Frederick and Kallee Lins dive into the latest developments surrounding Bill C-5, the One Canadian Economy Act (also An Act to enact the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act and the Building Canada Act), which has sparked significant debate across Canada's political and social landscape. 
Bill C-5, under the justification of removing barriers to development, allows for the sidestepping of crucial environmental assessment laws and Indigenous consultation, and chips away at democratic processes. Critics argue this bill is a corporate giveaway threatening Canada's democratic safeguards; the NDP has worked strategically to expose its deficiencies.
What does all of this mean for the shifting "centre" of Canadian politics, the possibility of a renewed identity for the NDP and the potential to rebuild electoral success?
Sources and Background Reading:
Government Backgrounder: Implementation of Bill C-5: One Canadian Economy - Canada.ca
Environmental Law Centre Analysis: Bill C-5 & the Building Canada Act: What You Need to Know
Canada’s Bill C-5: Continuing the Legislative Trend of Undermining Indigenous Rights - JFK Law - Canada
Ecojustice Analysis: https://ecojustice.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Building-Canada-Act-BCA-Ecojustice-analysis-V2.pdf
Liberals, Conservatives pass major projects legislation in House of Commons
Carney's 'nation-building' projects bill passes Senate — but not without Indigenous pushback
B.C.’s Bill 15 becomes law amid First Nations backlash | The Narwhal
Doug Ford's controversial Bill 5: Here's what you need to know | CBC News
New Democrats say no to Carney’s NATO 5 per cent commitment « Canada's NDP
A Federal Seat is Vacant in Battle River–Crowfoot – Elections Canada
 

The Conscience of the House

Welcome back to "Building Left," the podcast where we explore the evolving role of the New Democratic Party (NDP) and leftist politics in Canada. In this episode, hosts Jaime Frederick and Kallee Lins delve into what has been a revealing parliamentary session for the NDP, exploring their robust opposition to a conservative-leaning agenda since the session began on May 27th.
With King Charles' historic speech from the throne setting the stage, the NDP has made significant opposing moves on pivotal pieces of legislation, such as Bills C-2 and C-5, positioning themselves as the voice of true opposition. From defending the rights of refugees, to demonstrating solidarity with Gaza, the NDP is positioning itself as the steadfast voice for progressive politics in Canada.
 
Sources/Citations:
MP Jenny Kwan on Bill C-2:
Michael Geist: “Big Brother Tactics”: Why Bill C-2’s New Warrantless Disclosure Demand Powers Extend Far Beyond Internet and Telecom Providers - Jenny Kwan, Member of Parliament
The Backbench/Canadaland Podcast (Adam Sidinsky interview):
#134 Is Carney’s Bill C-2 ‘Much Worse Than Trump’?
NDP/ MP Heather McPherson on Gaza and Palestine:
NDP reaction to sanctions on Ben Gvir and Smotrich « Canada's NDP
NDP statement on Israel's recent attacks « Canada's NDP
MP Heather McPherson on CIFTA:
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/16bde6XRsW/
NDP/MP Lori Idlout response to Bill C-5:
NDP stands up for Free Prior and Informed Consent « Canada's NDP

Why save the NDP?

Welcome to Building Left, the podcast exploring the future of the NDP and the broader landscape of social democracy in Canada. Join hosts Jaime Frederick and Kallee Lins as they dive into the NDP's legacy and its relevance today—all from a rural and Western perspective. Tune in for a frank discussion about why a social democratic party matters in Canada, why proportional representation is needed now more than ever, and what the NDP needs to consider on its path to renewal. Whether you're a seasoned party member or new to the progressive movement, this conversation is essential for anyone invested in the future of Canada's left.
Sources referenced:
Saving the NDP in a few simple steps by Nora Loreto on Substack
Opinion: There's only one path to survival for the New Democrats, by Martin Regg Cohn in the Toronto Star
Hunt for new NDP leader raises tension before race begins (Matthew Green quoted in the Toronto Star)
Errata:
At one point in this episode, Jaime says that all 7 current NDP MPs are from the West or the North of Canada. He knows this is not the case and regrets the error. He would specifically like to apologize to the Hon. Alexandre Boulerice, who has represented the Montreal riding of Rosemont--La Petite Patrie since 2011--no disrespect was intended.