The head of a group representing Indigenous communities along the northern coast of British Columbia has firmly rejected a proposed bitumen pipeline from Alberta, stating that they will never support it. Alberta’s premier, Danielle Smith, disclosed that the province is spearheading the initiative for a pipeline to the northwest region of B.C. and has sought approvals from the federal Major Projects Office, citing national interest.
Despite support from Conservative figures and business entities advocating for the pipeline’s potential benefits in B.C., Marilyn Slett, who leads the Coastal First Nations-Great Bear Initiative and the Heiltsuk First Nation, expressed concerns about the detrimental impact on the local ecosystem if the project proceeds. She emphasized that the Indigenous communities in the area are adamantly opposed to lifting the moratorium on oil tankers due to the lasting repercussions of a significant oil spill in 2016.
Grand Chief Stewart Phillip of the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs condemned the pipeline proposal as an infringement on the constitutional rights of First Nations in British Columbia. B.C. Premier David Eby also voiced skepticism about the project’s viability, noting existing ventures in the province deserving federal attention. Additionally, B.C. Green Party MLA Jeremy Valeriote underscored the importance of transitioning to renewable energy sources rather than relying on fossil fuels for economic growth.
While some business groups in B.C. view the pipeline as beneficial for the provincial and national economy, there is substantial opposition from various political and Indigenous leaders. The debate centers on balancing economic interests with environmental and Indigenous rights considerations in the pursuit of energy projects in the region.