Alberta and the federal government have agreed to start planning a new pipeline to the B.C. coast, but Indigenous nations in Alberta are divided on the idea.
The Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation (AIOC) has been named a key partner in the plan. CEO Chana Martineau says it’s only a first step and stresses that Indigenous communities need to be involved early — not after major decisions are already made.
The federal agreement says the pipeline will only move forward if it is in the national interest and includes opportunities for Indigenous ownership and economic benefits. So far, the AIOC has helped provide about $745 million in loan guarantees for projects involving 43 First Nations.
But several nations still have concerns. The Confederacy of Treaty 6 First Nations says it was “disappointed” not to be included in the decision-making process and insists it deserves a seat at the table. Their treaty land covers much of the possible pipeline route.
The proposal would build a bitumen pipeline to the West Coast that could carry 300,000 to 400,000 barrels per day. It may also require changes to the federal Oil Tanker Moratorium Act, which currently prevents large oil tankers from docking on B.C.’s northern coast.
Environmental and safety concerns remain strong. Some experts warn that even with strict safety rules, a major oil spill — like the Exxon Valdez disaster — is still possible. Coastal First Nations in B.C. have said they will not support any exemption to the tanker ban.
Alberta’s Indigenous Relations Minister Rajan Sawhney says she is working to build open and honest relationships and recently met with concerned chiefs. As of now, no industry partners have confirmed interest in the project.
