August 8, 2025
Ottawa, Ontario
“Canada condemns the Israeli government’s decision to further escalate the conflict in Gaza.
This escalation will do nothing to end the humanitarian horror in Gaza or the deepening suffering of both the Israeli hostages and Palestinian civilians. Nor will it advance long-term peace and security for the Israeli people.
Canada calls for an immediate ceasefire. Hamas must immediately release all hostages taken during the horrific terrorist attack of October 7; Hamas must disarm; and we must see a massive and sustained surge in humanitarian aid, at the necessary scale.
We continue to work with our international partners on the path to a two-state solution, where an independent, viable, and sovereign Palestinian state lives side by side with the State of Israel in peace and security. We reiterate that Hamas must play no role in the future governance of a demilitarized Palestinian state. Canada will continue to support the Palestinian Authority’s commitment to reform and to strong, democratic governance.
Preserving the prospects for peace and stability in the region must be our collective priority. Canada urges all parties to negotiate in good faith toward a just, meaningful, and lasting peace that respects the dignity, security, and aspirations of all Palestinians and Israelis.”
August 8, 2025
Trenton, Ontario
Canada’s new government is rebuilding, rearming, and reinvesting in the Canadian Armed Forces. In June, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, announced an investment of over $9 billion to support the Canadian Armed Forces with the capabilities and support they need to protect Canadians and uphold our commitments around the world. At the core of our defence investment are the women and men who serve.
The demands on our Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) have only increased in the last thirty years – and their resources and salaries have not kept pace. These are the women and men who uphold Canada’s sovereignty, protect our security, and bolster our international alliances. Their pay should reflect the weight of their responsibilities.
Today, the Prime Minister announced that all Canadian Armed Forces members will receive a pay raise. This is the largest pay raise for the Canadian Armed Forces members in a generation.
These new measures will include:
- Increases on top of base pay, retroactive to April 1, 2025, putting more money in the pockets of everyone who serves. This increase will result in an 8% raise for colonels and above, a 13% raise for lieutenant-colonels and below, and a 20% increase in starting pay for privates in the Regular Force.
- A new Military Service Pay benefit, specifically tied to time in service, so paycheques also honour the years in uniform.
- Additional compensation initiatives to be rolled out over the next 12 months, including support for frequent moves and separation from families to help attract and retain the best instructors at training schools, raises to help CAF members training for combat, and additional pay for CAF members who serve in natural disasters.
These increases in pay and incentives will revitalize and transform recruitment and retention efforts, bolster force readiness, and ensure that members in uniform have the confidence and certainty they need to serve.
This is part of the strategic investments to meet NATO’s 2% defence spending target this year and invest 5% of annual GDP in defence by 2035. Our plan includes modernizing military equipment, building up Canada’s defence industry, diversifying international partnerships, and investing in dual-use infrastructure – such as airports, ports, telecom, and emergency systems – that support both defence and civilian readiness.
As we strengthen the Canadian Armed Forces, we will also build up Canadian industry, driving innovation and creating good careers for Canadian workers and new opportunities for Canadian businesses. Now more than ever, we need to defend our sovereignty and safeguard Canada’s people and interests.
Quotes
“The women and men of our Canadian Armed Forces make Canada strong, and today we are investing in that strength. With a pay raise for every single CAF member, we are strengthening our military, recognizing their sacrifice, and giving service members the resources, confidence, and certainty they need to serve.”
— The Rt. Hon. Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada
“We have seen, time and time again, no matter the situation, no matter the danger, the Canadian Armed Forces will always answer the call. Our Forces members are second to none, and they deserve a pay raise to recognize their service in defending Canadians and asserting our sovereignty.”
— The Hon. David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence
“Recruitment and retention of Canadian Armed Forces members are my top priorities, and I welcome today’s announcement. Enhanced compensation and benefits will help lower the impact of military lifestyle on military families, bring some financial stability to our members, and incentivize Canadians and permanent residents to serve our country. Our military needs well-trained, motivated, and dedicated people to deliver on our mandate to defend Canada and Canadians.”
— General Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defence Staff
Quick facts
- The measures announced today will benefit Regular Force and Reserve Force members, including the Canadian Rangers, and the Cadet Organizations Administration and Training Service, as well as their families.
- They represent a continued commitment to the strategic vision referenced in Our North, Strong and Free, to enhance the quality of life for military members and their families, and to attract and retain the highest standard of personnel required for the challenges of service.
- The Military Factor calculation is a percentage added to the base salaries of CAF members, which are otherwise comparable to those of public servants. It compensates for personal limitation and liability, imposed separation, posting turbulence, and the fact that CAF members do not receive additional pay for working long hours or acting for their supervisors. Base pay is not affected by this adjustment.
- Details on the additional compensation initiatives that will be rolled out over the next 12 months will be provided in due course.
- Canada’s defence investments for 2025-26 will be over $9 billion, helping strengthen the CAF’s capabilities and readiness while bringing Canada to NATO’s 2% defence spending goal this year.
- These investments are supporting the Canadian defence industry, creating high-paying jobs and driving innovation in sectors such as aerospace, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence.
- As part of the 5% Defence Investment Pledge that Canada joined at the NATO Summit, Canada will contribute 3.5% of GDP toward core military capabilities, including investments in the CAF, equipment modernization, and expanding defence industries. An additional 1.5% will be dedicated to critical infrastructure and dual-use investments such as ports, airports, and emergency preparedness systems. Progress toward this pledge will be reviewed in 2029.
- There is no better time than now to serve Canada and defend the nation. The CAF is actively seeking qualified individuals to fill more than 100 full- and part-time occupations. Apply today at Forces.ca.
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August 7, 2025
Ottawa, Ontario
Canada’s new government is ready to get our country building major infrastructure projects again – in partnership with Indigenous Peoples. To that end, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, convened the Métis Major Projects Summit in Ottawa to discuss the Building Canada Act and hear from Métis leaders on how best to work together.
During the Summit, the Prime Minister and Métis leadership discussed how the Building Canada Act will enable Canada’s new government to build big things that will connect and transform the national economy – driving greater prosperity for Métis through equity ownership and resource management projects. They focused on how the Government of Canada and Métis leaders will work together to build these projects. To ensure effective partnership with Indigenous Peoples, the federal government is moving forward with several new measures, including:
- Standing up an Indigenous Advisory Council that will work closely with the new Major Federal Projects Office. Comprised of Métis, First Nations, and Inuit, as well as Modern Treaty and Self-Government representatives, the Advisory Council will help ensure Indigenous perspectives and priorities are integrated at each stage. Both the Major Federal Projects Office and the Indigenous Advisory Council will be operational by Labour Day.
- Dedicating $40 million in funding for Indigenous participation. From early discussions on which projects to prioritize to ongoing capacity-building, new funding streams will support meaningful participation of Indigenous leadership in major projects.
- Expanding the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program. Canada’s new government has doubled the program to $10 billion, enabling more Indigenous communities to acquire full equity ownership of major projects. The government has substantially broadened the types of projects that are eligible for Métis equity participation through this financing from across the natural resource and energy sectors, from electricity generation to carbon capture, to critical minerals and beyond.
The Prime Minister and Métis leaders affirmed their commitment to work together on advancing shared priorities.
Today’s Summit built on previous meetings in recent weeks with First Nations and Inuit leaders, in Gatineau and Inuvik respectively. Collaboration will continue to further advance these conversations on a distinctions basis.
Quotes
“We are turning challenge into opportunity – and we’re doing so in partnership. Bill C-5 is enabling legislation that allows for new ways of working together. Through Indigenous equity and resource management, we will build ports, bridges, highways, and other major infrastructure projects in partnership with Indigenous Peoples and communities. This Summit marked an important step forward in that effort as we work to build transformative projects in true partnership with Métis.”
— The Rt. Hon. Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada
“Partnerships with Indigenous Peoples are at the heart of the One Canadian Economy Act. The Métis Major Projects Summit marks a crucial step in making Canada the strongest economy in the G7 while ensuring that Métis rights holders, and all Indigenous Peoples, are direct and meaningful participants in reaching that objective.”
— The Hon. Dominic LeBlanc, President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs and One Canadian Economy
“Métis communities have long demonstrated strength, innovation, and leadership in shaping this country – and their voices, priorities, and economic aspirations are vital to our future. The work we’re doing here together is helping build a more resilient and inclusive Canada, grounded in partnership, sustainability, and shared prosperity.”
— The Hon. Rebecca Alty, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations
“As we move forward in this chapter of our country’s history, we will ensure our work with Métis holds their decision-making, innovation, and values at the forefront. I am pleased to participate in today’s dialogue to discuss openly about the Building Canada Act. An inclusive economy is essential to a strong, shared future built with and for Indigenous Peoples."
— The Hon. Mandy Gull-Masty, Minister of Indigenous Services
“I know first-hand the determination, perseverance and entrepreneurial spirit that runs through our communities. Métis are ready to play an active role in shaping and strengthening Canada’s economy. Together, we will work with Métis communities to drive impactful change.”
— The Hon. Rebecca Chartrand, Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency
“Right now, Canada has a tremendous opportunity to strengthen our economy and secure our sovereignty in a way that advances reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and will provide prosperity for generations of Métis. With meaningful collaboration, we can create opportunity in Métis communities across the country as we enhance our energy security and develop our resources.”
— The Hon. Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
Quick facts
- The Building Canada Act ensures consultation with Métis and other Indigenous Peoples is built into the implementation process for determining whether a project should be listed under the Act as a project of national interest and for the development of the conditions document.
- The Government of Canada will advance nation-building projects while respecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples recognized and affirmed by Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, and the rights set out in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, including the principle of free, prior, and informed consent.
- The Indigenous Advisory Council will work closely with the Major Federal Projects Office to provide Indigenous perspectives for consideration at each stage. It will not replace consultation under Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.
- The Canada Indigenous Loan Guarantee Corporation is responsible for managing the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program. Loan guarantees are available to support Indigenous equity participation in projects of various sizes, reflecting the diversity of opportunities and economic development priorities in Indigenous communities across Canada.
- By advancing national interest projects, the Government of Canada is committed to working in partnership with Indigenous Peoples to support economic prosperity, grounded in respect for constitutionally protected rights and modern treaty obligations.
August 5, 2025
West Kelowna, British Columbia
The global trade landscape has fundamentally changed. To meet this moment, Canada’s new government is developing a comprehensive industrial strategy. It will invest in domestic production, develop Canadian expertise, support our companies to retool and reinvest, and help industries pivot to a growing Canadian market and those of new, reliable trading partners around the world.
As part of that strategy, the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, today announced a series of new measures to help the softwood lumber industry transform to remain competitive. These measures will help unlock the full potential of the industry as we scale up housing and major infrastructure construction and drive long-term economic growth, rooted in Canadian resources and innovation.
Canada’s new government will:
- Provide up to $700 million in loan guarantees to address the immediate pressures facing the softwood lumber sector. This will ensure companies have the financing and credit support they need to maintain and restructure their operations during this period of transformation.
- Invest $500 million to supercharge product and market diversification to make the industry more competitive for the long-term. As technology changes the way we build and demand grows for softwood lumber, this will increase domestic processing and value-added production. This investment will also include initiatives that support Indigenous-led forestry business development and diversification.
- Build Canadian by prioritizing Canadian materials in construction and changing federal procurement processes to require companies contracting with the federal government to source Canadian lumber. As the government delivers on its mandate to build major infrastructure projects faster and to increase the pace of homebuilding to nearly 500,000 new homes per year over the next decade, we will ensure Canadian lumber and other Canadian materials are prioritized in that construction. Once established, Build Canada Homes will provide financing to innovative private sector home builders in Canada that use Canadian technologies and resources, like mass timber and softwood lumber.
- Diversify international markets for Canada’s sustainably sourced forest products. We will launch a new initiative to diversify exports of Canadian wood products, including the reinvigoration of federal programming to expand offshore markets for sustainable, innovative, high-quality products. In fast-growing regions with rising demand for housing and other buildings, we will promote Canadian lumber as an affordable, sustainable solution.
- Provide $50 million for upskilling, reskilling, and income supports for more than 6,000 affected softwood lumber workers through the Labour Market Development Agreements. This investment builds on temporary enhancements to the Employment Insurance (EI) program and the EI Work-Sharing program. Through this investment, we will equip workers with the tools and training they need to stay competitive – helping them adapt to new technologies, strengthen their expertise, and excel in changing industries.
Canada’s economy is shifting from reliance to resilience. During this time of transformation, these measures will ensure Canada’s softwood lumber industry and workers are able to adapt and emerge even stronger.
Quotes
“The forest sector is a pillar of Canada’s economy. As we shift from reliance to resilience, Canada’s new government will ensure the industry can transform to seize new opportunities in Canadian and international markets. In the face of a changing global landscape, we are focused on what we can control – building Canada strong with Canadian expertise, using Canadian lumber.”
— The Rt. Hon. Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada
“Canada’s forestry sector is a cornerstone of our economy. It supports nearly 200,000 good jobs in both urban and rural communities and accounts for billions in contribution to Canada’s GDP and exports every year. Through the actions announced today and existing supports, we are committed to protecting this key industry and the workers who power it.”
— The Hon. François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Finance and National Revenue
“Today’s announcement showcases the Government of Canada’s steadfast commitment to supporting the Canadian economy and the workers who keep it strong. By bolstering this key industry and ensuring resilient supply chains, we stand with the industry, its workers, and communities to keep Canada a trusted global trade partner.”
— The Hon. Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
“The world is changing, and Canada must be ready to meet the challenges of our times. That’s why the government is taking action to support the workers and industries that build Canada – day in and day out. By strengthening what we have here at home and standing up for Canada, we’re making sure our country stays strong, competitive, and ready to lead.”
— The Hon. Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario
“Canada’s natural resources are not only a cornerstone of our national identity – they are the foundation of our economy. Protecting and modernizing our resource industries in the face of tariffs and global uncertainty is critical to safeguarding Canadian jobs and communities and ensuring a prosperous and strong future.”
— The Hon. Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
Quick facts
- Canada’s forest sector is a major economic driver, supporting nearly 200,000 workers, including over 11,000 Indigenous Peoples, and contributing more than $20 billion to our GDP.
- In 2024, 66% of Canada’s total softwood lumber production was exported, and of that, nearly 90% was exported to the U.S.
- On July 25, 2025, the U.S. Department of Commerce doubled duties on softwood lumber products from Canada, with further increases expected later this month.
- New and innovative forest products such as engineered timber, biofuels, and forest product-based biodegradable packaging materials are helping Canada reach net-zero by 2050 and enabling more sustainable, efficient housing solutions.
- Canada’s new government will double the pace of homebuilding to almost 500,000 new homes a year over the next decade. That alone will double the use of Canadian softwood lumber in residential construction – an increase of almost 2 billion board feet – and it will double demand for structural panels – an increase of almost 1 billion square feet.
- Build Canada Homes, once established, will prioritize the use of Canadian-made materials – including lumber – to accelerate housing construction while supporting Canadian workers and industries.
