OTTAWA - Former environment minister and prominent environmentalist Steven Guilbeault announced on Wednesday his intention to resign as a Liberal Member of Parliament (MP) this summer. Guilbeault has expressed growing disenchantment with the current government's approach to climate policies, particularly under Prime Minister Mark Carney.

Recently, Guilbeault has been critical of what he perceives as the dismantling of crucial climate policies by the Carney administration. This frustration culminated in his resignation from the cabinet last year, following the announcement of Ottawa's energy deal with Alberta, which notably included plans for the approval of a controversial bitumen pipeline.

In response to Guilbeault's resignation plans, various politicians shared their thoughts. Prime Minister Mark Carney stated, “First and foremost, what I want to do is thank Steven Guilbeault for his many contributions. We’ve worked closely together in a variety of areas and I’ve always enjoyed working with him.”

Conservative MP Michael Barrett commented on Guilbeault's decision, acknowledging his strong beliefs. Barrett noted, “Mr. Guilbeault has the courage of his convictions and has seen that he doesn’t have that alignment with Mr. Carney.”

Joel Lightbound, the Procurement Minister, offered his respect for Guilbeault, stating, “I have the greatest respect for him and I understand that after seven years in politics, for various reasons, one can decide to do something else and in other capacities.”

Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon highlighted the unfolding complexities facing the government, saying, “It’s a different Liberal party that is meeting the very urgent and critical demands of the moment. We’re in a trade war, there are wars in the Middle East, there’s a war in Europe. Indeed, we have a climate change challenge to meet and contribute to, and we’re going to continue doing all of that.”

On a more personal note, Liberal MP Jean-Yves Duclos expressed his esteem for Guilbeault, saying, “I, personally, value extremely the level of commitment that he provided the government. The personal relationship that he had with me, we worked together really well and he became a friend quickly. I have so much esteem and gratitude for the way that he engaged with the government, but even more importantly the relationship that he helped me build with him.”

Liberal MP Matt Jeneroux shared a similar sentiment, wishing Guilbeault success in his future endeavors, stating, “Steven is a dear friend. I wish him the best in whatever decision he ends up making. At the end of the day, he has been somebody who I have been able to ask advice for in the past, and I wish him well.”

Environment Minister Julie Dabrusin also expressed admiration for Guilbeault, remarking, “I have a tremendous amount of respect for him and the work that he does and I really wish him all the best.”

This report highlights the significant impact Guilbeault has had during his tenure and the respect he commands among his colleagues, despite the challenges he faced within the party. His resignation marks a pivotal moment in the Liberal Party's approach to environmental issues under Prime Minister Mark Carney's leadership.

This news was originally published on May 27, 2026.