Long-serving Quebec environmental advocate Steven Guilbeault has stepped down from his position in the federal cabinet due to disagreements over a potential pipeline project in Western Canada, sparking discussions about the role of activists in government. Guilbeault, who previously served as the environment minister under Justin Trudeau and played a key role in Mark Carney’s cabinet, cited his inability to continue while Carney was advancing the project.
Having most recently held the positions of official languages minister, minister of Canadian identity and culture, and Carney’s representative in Quebec, Guilbeault’s departure highlights the challenge activists face in balancing personal convictions with broader political goals. Political science professor Dónal Gill from Concordia University commented that maintaining strict principles while trying to garner support across diverse regions, economies, and cultures proves to be an unworkable compromise for many.
Upon entering federal politics in 2019 and securing a seat in downtown Montreal, Guilbeault, known for his extensive environmental advocacy work with the group Équiterre, quickly became a prominent figure. His strong opposition to the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion, a project acquired by the Trudeau government in 2018 despite widespread opposition, exemplified his commitment to environmental causes.
Despite Guilbeault’s environmental background, he initially received the heritage portfolio in 2019, leading some Quebec environmentalists to view the move as a concession to Western interests. Bound by cabinet solidarity rules, Guilbeault faced limitations in publicly opposing government policies, even those conflicting with his activism.
Guilbeault’s resignation, according to Karel Mayrand from the Quebec branch of the David Suzuki Foundation and CEO of the Trottier Family Foundation, reflects his struggle to advance his climate agenda within the government. Mayrand expressed concerns about the potential impact on the federal climate plan following Guilbeault’s departure.
In a social media post announcing his resignation, Guilbeault emphasized his commitment to fighting climate change and protecting the environment, clarifying his decision to step down in response to the agreement signed by Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith regarding the construction of a major oil pipeline. Despite leaving his cabinet position, Guilbeault intends to remain a Liberal Member of Parliament, with Green Leader Elizabeth May inviting him to join her caucus.