Steven Guilbeault (pictured) has resigned as Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture.

Guilbeault published a statement explaining his resignation on social media, in which he outlined his opposition to the government’s memorandum of understanding with Alberta, signed Thursday (Nov. 27). The agreement includes approval to construct a new pipeline to the west coast and rollbacks on climate initiatives.

“As you know, I chose to enter politics to champion the fight against climate change and the protection of the environment,” Guilbeault wrote in his post.

His cabinet positions also included Minister responsible for Official Languages, Minister of Nature and Parks Canada, and Lieutenant in Quebec. Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed in a post on X that Guilbeault will remain in the Liberal caucus as MP for Laurier—Sainte-Marie.

“Whether in civil society or in Cabinet, Steven Guilbeault’s leadership to advance sustainability has consistently shaped a more hopeful horizon for future generations,” wrote Carney, adding that he has been “deeply grateful” for Guilbeault’s “counsel and contributions to our new government, which shares his fundamental commitment to climate ambition and climate competitiveness for Canada.”

Guilbeault was appointed Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture in March, and was re-affirmed in May following the spring election. He previously served as Minister of Canadian Heritage for two years from 2019 to 2021, and was a critical figure in supporting the film and TV industry during the global pandemic.

His departure follows a more than $450-million investment in Canada’s film and TV sector over the next three years, offering short-term stability for national funders like Telefilm and the Canada Media Fund.

His full statement can be read here.

Updated on Nov. 28 with Prime Minister Mark Carney’s statement