Alberta Premier Encourages Quebec to Develop Natural Gas Industry
During her visit to Montreal, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith urged Quebec to tap into its own natural gas reserves and establish a thriving industry to lessen its reliance on equalization payments.
Speaking at an event hosted by the Chamber of Commerce of Metropolitan Montreal, Smith emphasized the importance of Quebec utilizing its abundant natural gas resources. She highlighted that Quebec possesses a significant 200-year supply of natural gas, suggesting that developing this sector could foster economic independence and strength for the province.
While discussing energy strategies, Smith did not touch on the prospect of constructing pipelines for Alberta’s oil or natural gas to pass through Quebec. Instead, she mentioned conversations with Ontario Premier Doug Ford about transporting Alberta’s fossil fuels to Thunder Bay for eastward shipment through the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence Seaway.
Smith also expressed Alberta’s willingness to assist Quebec in establishing its own natural gas industry, emphasizing the province’s expertise in regulatory and royalty frameworks. Encouraging Quebec to diversify its revenue streams, she highlighted the potential for reducing reliance on equalization payments through resource development.
As part of her tour of eastern Canada, Smith was set to meet with Prime Minister Mark Carney and Ontario Premier Doug Ford, as well as engage with business leaders from Quebec and Ontario. Her goal is to foster collaboration and economic growth across provinces before returning to Alberta later this week.
Keyphrase: Quebec natural gas industry
