Coastal First Nations block Alberta-B.C. pipeline over consent and environmental risks
A proposed oil pipeline from Alberta to British Columbia, a project management challenge for Ottawa, is facing strong opposition from Indigenous groups along the coast. Coastal First Nations leaders have reaffirmed their stance against the project, warning that Ottawa must seek proper consent before moving forward. The dispute centres on environmental concerns and long-standing resistance to oil developments in the region.
The pipeline plan was part of a November agreement between Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith. In exchange for federal backing of the new pipeline, Alberta committed to building a carbon capture project to cut emissions from the oilsands. Smith has argued that the pipeline is vital for Canada’s economy, especially amid trade pressures from U.S. tariffs under former President Donald Trump.
Coastal First Nations, however, remain firmly against the proposal. Haida Nation president Gaagwiis Jason Alsop stated that their opposition is rooted in protecting coastal waters and ecosystems where their communities live. The group has a history of resisting oil projects, including the now-abandoned Northern Gateway pipeline.
Marilyn Slett, president of Coastal First Nations, called on Carney to maintain the current ban on heavy oil tankers off B.C.’s north coast. She also emphasised the need for meaningful consultation, pointing to the Liberal government’s support for the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. While the nations are open to further dialogue, they insist they will not back the pipeline under any circumstances.
No Indigenous groups from Alberta have publicly supported the project in discussions with B.C. officials.
The pipeline’s future remains uncertain as Indigenous leaders demand real engagement from Ottawa. Without their consent, the project cannot proceed, leaving Alberta’s plans in limbo. The federal government now faces the challenge of balancing economic goals with its legal and moral obligations to First Nations.
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