Trump’s threats put controversial B.C. pipeline back in the political spotlight

The threat of a trade war between Canada and the United States has reignited discussions surrounding the long-dormant Northern Gateway pipeline project. With the possibility of tariffs and trade disputes looming, some former opponents of the project are now considering the benefits of shipping more oil through British Columbia.

Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs president Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, who had previously opposed the pipeline, has now expressed openness to supporting the project. He emphasized the need for Canada to take control of its energy infrastructure in the face of uncertainty caused by climate change and the threats posed by U.S. President Donald Trump.

The revival of the Northern Gateway project has also been advocated for by Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre. They argue that building domestic pipelines is essential to diversifying Canada’s energy exports and reducing reliance on the United States as a sole trading partner.

Despite the political support, Enbridge, the company behind the Northern Gateway project, has stated that they have no plans to revive it. They believe that there are more efficient and less disruptive ways to utilize existing pipeline infrastructure. Federal Energy Minister Jonathan Wilkinson also expressed skepticism about the feasibility of reviving the project, citing the lengthy timeline required for pipeline development.

B.C. Premier David Eby emphasized the importance of economic diversification while also highlighting the need for consultations with Indigenous and local communities before moving forward with any projects. Regional Chief Terry Teegee of the B.C. Assembly of First Nations echoed this sentiment, underscoring the importance of a thorough approval process that takes into account the diverse opinions of Indigenous peoples.

As discussions continue about the potential revival of the Northern Gateway pipeline, it is clear that any future development will need to prioritize environmental protection, Indigenous consultation, and economic diversification. Finding a balance between these competing interests will be essential in determining the feasibility of the project moving forward.