Prime Minister Mark Carney has outlined a shared agenda for his cabinet, emphasizing that his government will focus on reducing the cost of living, strengthening international alliances, and revitalizing Canada’s economy.
In a shift from previous administrations, Carney released a single, unified mandate letter instead of issuing separate directives for each minister. He stated that this approach reflects the collective mission of the government, aligning the cabinet under a common set of goals.
“This letter outlines the key responsibilities entrusted to us by Canadians,” Carney said during a press briefing on Parliament Hill following a closed-door two-day retreat in Gatineau, Quebec. “We aim to build the most resilient economy among G7 nations, ensure affordability for Canadian families, enhance national and community safety, and develop deeper ties with the United States and other trusted international allies.”
Unlike prior administrations, the media were not granted access to the retreat at Meech Lake, making Carney the primary voice representing the outcomes of the discussions. The absence of public commentary from ministers drew more attention to recent mixed messages on housing and pipeline policy, further underscoring the need for a coordinated direction.
The mandate letter urges ministers to determine specific goals and performance benchmarks for their departments. Carney emphasized that cabinet committees—some newly formed—will be responsible for tracking and advancing progress, with the priorities and strategy committee, chaired by the prime minister, providing oversight.
Among the newly created committees are:
- “Build Canada,” focused on economic growth
- A group dedicated to increasing government efficiency
- Committees on operations, parliamentary affairs, quality of life, and national security
- A “secure and sovereign Canada” committee, tasked with defending sovereignty and managing global relations, especially with the U.S.
