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Lakeland Member of Parliament Shannon Stubbs says she used the closing weeks of the recent Parliamentary session to challenge the federal government on issues including the cost of living, energy development, and pipeline construction.
Stubbs, who serves as the Conservative Shadow Minister for Energy and Natural Resources, questioned the government during Question Period and committee proceedings, arguing that Canadians continue to face affordability pressures and that regulatory barriers are slowing major energy projects.
Among her concerns, Stubbs pointed to unemployment figures, rising household costs, and the financial challenges faced by many families. She argued that federal spending, taxation, and development policies have contributed to economic difficulties and called for changes aimed at improving affordability and encouraging investment.
The MP also criticized government spending on official travel, referencing reports of in-flight catering costs for international trips and contrasting those expenses with the financial pressures experienced by many Canadians.
On energy policy, Stubbs urged the federal government to take concrete steps toward enabling the construction of a pipeline connecting Canadian energy producers with Pacific export markets. During a meeting of the House of Commons Natural Resources Committee, she introduced a motion calling for the government to report that such a project is in the national interest.
According to Stubbs, Canada would benefit economically from expanded pipeline infrastructure, which she said could strengthen exports, create jobs, and improve the country’s long-term competitiveness. She also argued that regulatory reform is needed to encourage private-sector investment in major projects.
The proposed motion did not proceed before Parliament adjourned, with Liberal members of the committee voting to end debate. Stubbs said the outcome highlighted what she views as a gap between government commitments to support energy development and the pace of action on major infrastructure projects.
Stubbs also referenced testimony presented to the Natural Resources Committee regarding the federal Clean Fuel Standard, including comments that certain policies may increase costs for producers and consumers while affecting affordability.
In addition, she pointed to Alberta’s recent economic performance, arguing that the province continues to drive growth and investment despite what she described as federal barriers to resource development. She called for policies that would accelerate major project construction and expand Canada’s energy sector.
The federal government has previously stated that it supports responsible resource development while balancing economic growth with environmental considerations and commitments to Indigenous consultation.
Stubbs said she will continue advocating for lower costs, reduced regulatory barriers, and increased investment in Canadian energy infrastructure when Parliament resumes.
Information for this article was provided by the Office of Shannon Stubbs, MP for Lakeland, Shadow Minister for Energy & Natural Resources.
