Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith are set to finalize an agreement regarding the future of Alberta’s energy sector, as per a reliable federal government source. The anticipated memorandum of understanding between the federal and provincial authorities is expected to address the longstanding request from Smith regarding a potential oil pipeline in northwest B.C.
The unnamed federal source, who is not authorized to discuss the agreement publicly, mentioned that the scheduled signing on Thursday might be subject to change. Unlike the previous government that rejected the idea of an oil pipeline to the region, Carney is willing to explore the project under the condition that Alberta leads the Indigenous consultation process and engages in discussions with the B.C. government.
B.C. Premier David Eby strongly opposes the proposed pipeline, citing concerns. Additionally, the federal government is contemplating exemptions to the B.C. tanker ban bill, allowing tankers related to the potential pipeline to bypass the existing moratorium. Despite the absence of private interest in constructing a West Coast pipeline, Smith’s administration aims to attract private investors by submitting a formal application to the federal Major Projects Office.
The ongoing discussions surrounding the potential agreement with Alberta indicate the government’s openness to a new pipeline extending from Alberta to B.C.’s northern coast, although final decisions are yet to be made. The project faces opposition from various parties, including B.C.’s premier.