Cabinet Shakeup Over Energy Policy
Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault has dramatically resigned from Prime Minister Mark Carney's cabinet, citing fundamental disagreements with a newly signed energy agreement between the federal government and Alberta. The resignation occurred on Thursday, November 27, 2025, creating immediate political turmoil for the Carney administration.
Pipeline Deal Details and Conditions
The controversial memorandum of understanding between the federal government and Alberta lays out specific conditions for new oil pipeline development in the province. While full details of the agreement haven't been made public, sources indicate it includes environmental safeguards and economic provisions that proved unacceptable to Guilbeault, who has long been a staunch environmental advocate.
The Montreal MP's departure represents a significant blow to Carney's government, particularly given Guilbeault's high profile on environmental issues. The resignation came just hours after Carney announced the energy agreement, suggesting the minister had not been consulted or disagreed fundamentally with the direction.
Political Fallout and Reactions
Reaction to both the pipeline agreement and Guilbeault's resignation has been sharply divided. British Columbia Premier David Eby described the pipeline MOU as a 'distraction from real projects and opportunities', while Alberta officials praised the deal as a necessary step for economic development.
The agreement has already drawn criticism from B.C. First Nations leaders, who maintain that the existing tanker ban remains non-negotiable despite the new federal-provincial understanding. This sets the stage for potential legal and political battles as the pipeline proposal moves forward.
Political analysts suggest Guilbeault's resignation could trigger broader discontent within the government's environmental wing, potentially complicating Carney's ability to maintain party unity on energy and climate policy moving forward.
