British Columbia Premier David Eby has expressed his concerns to Prime Minister Mark Carney about Alberta and Saskatchewan discussing a potential pipeline with the federal government without involving B.C. Eby emphasized that such exclusionary behavior towards his province is unacceptable and insists that B.C. and Coastal First Nations should be active participants in any future discussions.
Eby’s stance coincides with reports of a pending agreement between the federal government and Alberta regarding a potential pipeline from Alberta to B.C.’s northern coast, alongside exceptions to the tanker ban along the coast.
Regarding potential actions to prevent this pipeline, Eby refrained from detailing specific measures, citing the significant economic implications for jobs and projects tied to First Nations’ consensus. He remains unworried about a project without a defined route or private-sector financial support.
Eby dismissed Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s proposal as a mere “communication exercise” and reserved judgment on the memorandum of understanding until reviewing it personally.
In response to Eby’s complaints, Federal Energy Minister Tim Hodgson assured that discussions with B.C. would take place promptly. Hodgson highlighted B.C.’s advantageous position in having numerous projects under consideration for expedited approval by the federal government.