Manitoba Legislature Wraps Spring Session Amid Procedural Battles and Policy Priorities

As the Manitoba Legislature adjourns for the summer, the 2026 spring session will be remembered as much for procedural conflict as policy debate. In the closing days of the session, MLAs sat through overnight sittings as government and opposition members battled over the passage of the Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act (BITSA). The […]

The BC Legislature Awards: Spring Session Edition

British Columbia’s tumultuous legislative session ends today with the House rising until Oct. 5. It began with a rare moment of unity as all parties in the Legislature came together in mourning following the mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge that claimed nine lives, including the shooter. Days later, the tone shifted sharply back to politics […]

Inside Premier Smith’s Cabinet Shuffle: What Changed and Why It Matters

Premier Smith Shuffles Cabinet: What Alberta’s New Ministry Lineup Signals for Stakeholders Premier Danielle Smith announced a major cabinet shuffle today that includes significant movement of senior ministers to new portfolios and offers an early look at the government’s political and policy priorities just over a year out from the next provincial election. The shuffle […]

When Policy Meets Reality: Navigating Ontario’s Species Conservation Act Transition

Managing Transition Effectively: Species Conservation Act  Anyone who has worked in government knows that even the most meticulously designed policy is still at the mercy of the law of unintended consequences. Operational success happens on the ground, not in an ivory tower. The real test is how policy changes interact with the real economy once implementation begins. When the pens are finally put down, you’re only just beginning. Ontario’s transition from the Endangered Species […]

Carney’s Spring Update Braces Canada for US Trade Fight

Carney’s Spring Update Braces Canada for US Trade Fight Against the backdrop of today’s Spring Economic Update, the Carney government has taken a more combative tone with the Trump administration as the timeline to CUSMA renegotiation approaches. With few reasons for optimism as rhetoric from the American side ramps up, the possibility of a worst-case […]

Majority Rules: Carney Tips Balance of Power in Parliament

We are now in majority territory. With the help of three by-election wins last night, the Liberal government of Mark Carney has clinched a majority government. This result is built on five floor crossers over the last several months, allowing the Carney Liberals to convert their general election minority government to a majority mandate. This […]

Darielle Segovia Promoted to Senior Consultant

Counsel is proud to announce the promotion of Darielle Segovia to Senior Consultant, recognizing her strong performance, continued professional growth, and expanding role within the firm’s BC team. “Darielle’s growth is reflected in her increasing involvement in client-facing work, including events, networking, and government engagement across BC,” said Amanda van Baarsen, Vice President. “Her strong […]

Liberals on verge of majority with latest floor crossing

With polls in the Canadian federal election having closed 345 days ago, the Counsel decision desk can finally call it – we are projecting a Liberal majority government. With the shock floor crossing of former Conservative MP Marilyn Gladu, the Liberals are all but assured a majority government following the by-elections on Monday, April 13.  […]

Kelsey Hrappstead Joins Counsel as Senior Account Director

Counsel Public Affairs welcomes Kelsey Hrappstead as a Senior Account Director with our Ontario Practice.   Kelsey brings extensive experience in government relations, policy development, and strategic communications, supporting clients through complex political and stakeholder environments. Her work is grounded in a strong understanding of legislative processes and government decision-making, helping clients advance priorities with […]