The Metis Settlements of Alberta have expressed their interest in acquiring a share in a proposed oil pipeline project to the West Coast. They aim to collaborate with First Nations in British Columbia who are against the initiative and are planning to present an urgent resolution at the Assembly of First Nations gathering in Ottawa on Tuesday.
Dave Lamouche, the president of the eight Métis settlements in Alberta, believes that a new pipeline could be instrumental in enabling Métis communities to achieve long-term sustainability by establishing revenue-generating partnerships. He emphasized that Alberta is offering a comprehensive partnership and participation opportunity.
While advocating for the benefits of the project, Lamouche also acknowledged the legitimate concerns of Coastal First Nations. The recent memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by Ottawa and Alberta emphasizes the necessity for Indigenous co-ownership and economic benefits in any new pipeline endeavor.
The potential adjustment of the oil tanker ban along the northern B.C. coast to facilitate Alberta’s product shipment to Asian markets could potentially create divisions among Indigenous groups. Coastal First Nations have vehemently opposed any relaxation of the oil tanker ban.
Given the contentious nature of the project, Lamouche expressed his willingness to engage with Coastal First Nations to explore collaborative avenues for advancing the pipeline construction. He highlighted the importance of working together and seeking common ground for mutual benefit.
The proposed pipeline project is expected to be a focal point at the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Special Chiefs Assembly in Ottawa this week. B.C. First Nations leaders are gearing up to introduce an emergency resolution to uphold the oil tanker ban, just before Prime Minister Mark Carney’s scheduled address at the AFN gathering.
Regional Chief Terry Teegee of the B.C. AFN highlighted widespread concerns among First Nations leaders nationwide regarding the pipeline proposal. He stressed the necessity of obtaining consent for any project and respecting Indigenous rights and interests.
The Metis Settlements of Alberta have a history of collaboration with the Alberta government on natural resource management. Lamouche praised the collaborative approach of Alberta in the MOU, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and partnership in project development.
Looking ahead, Lamouche mentioned exploring loan guarantees through the Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation to facilitate Indigenous community investments in projects like pipelines. The anticipated revenue from the project could significantly contribute to essential infrastructure development in Alberta Métis communities.
Alberta Indigenous Relations Minister Rajan Sawhney is actively engaging with Lamouche and other Indigenous communities on the potential pipeline project. Sawhney’s office emphasized the importance of fostering strong and mutually beneficial relationships with Indigenous groups for long-term prosperity.
The government’s commitment to supporting Indigenous communities through economic partnerships that ensure lasting benefits for future generations was reiterated by Sawhney. The ongoing discussions aim to deliver economic opportunities that will have a positive impact for years to come.