First Nations on B.C.’s North Coast say they would not support a new pipeline
The president of an organization representing First Nations along the north coast of B.C. has made it clear that they do not support any new pipeline projects in the region. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has indicated that a private company may soon propose a new oil pipeline to B.C.’s North Coast, with the endpoint in Prince Rupert.
Marilyn Slett, the elected chief councillor of the Heiltsuk Tribal Council and president of the Coastal First Nations’ Great Bear Initiative (CFN), which comprises nine First Nations from the north Pacific coast of B.C. to Haida Gwaii, stated that no project or proponents proposing to send oil through the North Coast would be acceptable to them. The CFN First Nations were involved in a B.C. Supreme Court appeal that halted the Northern Gateway pipeline plans due to inadequate consultation with affected First Nations.
Slett emphasized that the North Coast is home to a rich marine ecosystem and is vital for the sustenance and culture of their communities. She expressed support for reliable energy projects such as solar and hydroelectric instead. A University of British Columbia study estimated that a major oil spill cleanup on the North Coast could cost billions and have severe economic impacts on various industries.
B.C. Premier David Eby has not taken a definitive stance on a potential pipeline through northern B.C. but has ruled out publicly funding such a project. He supports the federal oil tanker ban on the North Coast, which prohibits oil tankers carrying large quantities of crude oil from stopping at ports in the area.
Terry Teegee, the B.C. regional chief for the Assembly of First Nations, cautioned against premature discussions about a proposed pipeline and emphasized the need for First Nations to be involved in decision-making processes regarding large energy projects. He raised concerns about the long-lasting impacts of such projects on First Nations territories.
Eby recently returned from a trade mission to East Asia, where interest in B.C.’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) was expressed by Japanese conglomerates. LNG production has commenced, with transportation via the Coastal GasLink pipeline to an export facility in Kitimat. Teegee stressed the importance of considering the implications of energy projects on First Nations territories and ensuring their participation in the decision-making process.
In conclusion, the opposition from First Nations and concerns about environmental and economic impacts highlight the complexities surrounding the potential development of new pipelines in northern B.C. It is crucial for all stakeholders, including First Nations, to be actively involved in discussions and decision-making processes to ensure sustainable and responsible development in the region.
