British Columbia and Coastal First Nations Unite to Uphold Oil Tanker Ban
British Columbia Premier David Eby and Coastal First Nations have joined forces in a momentous declaration urging the federal government to maintain the crucial oil tanker ban along the province’s pristine north coast.
Eby emphasized the severe consequences of a potential oil spill in the region, warning of catastrophic damage to the coastal economy without adequate cleanup technology in place.
In contrast, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has been pushing for the repeal of the tanker ban to facilitate the construction of an oil pipeline to British Columbia’s coast, sparking a contentious debate.
Chief Marilyn Slett, representing the Coastal First Nations, highlighted the significant advocacy efforts spanning five decades that led to the establishment of the tanker ban, emphasizing its pivotal role in preserving the health of the coast and bolstering the economy.
Jason Alsop, president of the Haida Nation, echoed strong opposition to pipelines and oil tankers near Haida Gwaii, asserting a united front against such developments.
The joint declaration emphasizes that lifting the tanker ban would jeopardize vital projects, deprive British Columbia of numerous jobs and substantial investments, and pose a serious threat of irreversible ecological harm.
The signatories, including Eby, Slett, Alsop, Lax Kw’alaams Mayor Garry Reece, Paula Amos of Indigenous Tourism B.C., and hereditary elder Clarence Innis, unequivocally call upon the federal government to uphold the tanker ban as a non-negotiable national commitment essential for safeguarding the North Coast’s environment and securing economic prosperity for future generations.
Keyphrase: oil tanker ban