‘I think there’s a risk aversion in government,’ energy minister says

Hodgson: Look, I think the civil service is very good at pointing out, “these are the risks of this, this.” And it’s like, “yeah, but here are the rewards.” In the private sector, you have to take risks to get the rewards. Oftentimes the risks are … the risks are very politically obvious. The rewards are diverse to all Canadians. So we have to keep recognizing that, yes, there are political risks in taking decisions, but those rewards go to all Canadians, and that’s ultimately our job is to serve all Canadians. So, don’t over-index on risk. Consider the risks carefully, but also make sure you’re focusing on what are the rewards. What are the rewards for all Canadians? And sometimes we have to take those political risks.