Premier Scott Moe has expressed his backing for a new pipeline proposal in Alberta, stressing that decisions should not be subjected to external groups beyond the federal government. Moe asserted that the coast and ports in British Columbia belong to all Canadians, not just specific entities, in response to concerns raised by B.C. Premier David Eby and Indigenous groups in B.C. regarding the project. He highlighted the significance of diversifying the country’s economy away from the U.S. and identified the proposed pipeline as a crucial project for achieving this goal.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith recently announced the province’s intention to submit an application to the federal Major Projects Office for a bitumen pipeline connecting Alberta to the northwest coast of British Columbia. The plan involves a $14 million commitment from Alberta to spearhead the project, alongside a “technical advisory group” comprising Enbridge, South Bow, and Trans Mountain. Alberta aims to secure a private company or consortium for the pipeline’s construction, although a specific route is yet to be proposed. The application is expected to be submitted in spring 2026.
In response to Alberta’s announcement, there have been mixed reactions nationwide. B.C. Premier David Eby criticized the proposal as vague and overly reliant on government backing, while Federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre expressed support for the pipeline and urged the federal government to step aside to facilitate private investment. Conversely, Indigenous leaders in B.C., including Marilyn Slett of the Coastal First Nations-Great Bear Initiative, opposed the project, citing concerns about lifting the moratorium on oil tankers in the region.
The Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs and Grand Chief Stewart Phillip also raised objections, emphasizing the potential infringement on the rights of First Nations communities. Premier Moe rejected the notion of veto power for B.C. groups but emphasized the importance of consulting Indigenous communities throughout the project’s development.
Looking ahead, Prime Minister Mark Carney recently announced a series of “nation-building” projects, with Saskatchewan’s McIlvenna Bay Foran Copper Mine Project slated for completion in 2026. Federal Minister for Energy and Resources Tim Hodgson hinted at more upcoming project announcements. Premier Moe highlighted interest in various mining ventures in Saskatchewan, including uranium mines, but underscored particular enthusiasm for a proposed “port-to-port” pipeline corridor connecting Prince Rupert in B.C. to Churchill, Man., as discussed at a meeting of western premiers earlier this year.