By Rosalind Russell – Alberta’s push for a pipeline through northern B.C. is threatening to cause friction, even as leaders presented a united front after the First Ministers’ meeting.
Provincial and territorial leaders met with Prime Minister Mark Carney in Saskatoon on Monday, each bringing their own wish lists for major projects. The meeting occurred against the backdrop of a U.S. tariff war and the recently rekindled though not formally endorsed Alberta separatist movement.
Carney’s government is preparing legislation that would fast-track certain “nation-building” projects. After Monday’s meeting, Carney said the ministers discussed various projects, including those supporting a new western and Arctic energy corridor.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith wants a pipeline carrying Alberta bitumen to the Port of Prince Rupert on B.C.’s north coast, presenting it as an issue of national unity.
Smith said the federal government needs to reconsider its “terrible policies,” which she argued create barriers for attracting proponents of future pipelines, including the ban on oil tankers in northern British Columbia waters.
B.C. Deputy Premier Niki Sharma attended the meeting while B.C. Premier David Eby is in Asia on a trade mission.
Sharma emphasized that B.C. supports the “Team Canada” approach to economic development but said the province is looking toward “shovel-ready” projects, with a focus on clean energy and critical minerals.
Photo of Mark Carney – youtube
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