Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has announced plans to propose a new oil pipeline extending from Alberta to the northern coast of British Columbia, labeling it as a crucial test for Canadian unity. The significance of a single infrastructure project determining the cohesion and democratic integrity of Canada seems debatable. Should the emphasis be placed on a singular pipeline, its successful construction while upholding environmental standards and garnering public approval would truly define its impact on the nation.
Smith’s approach sets a challenge for Prime Minister Mark Carney, hinting at a resemblance to the failed Northern Gateway pipeline project. Despite blaming a political decision for its demise in 2016, the project faced complexities beyond mere approval, including various conditions and public sentiment, notably in British Columbia. The Federal Court of Appeal’s ruling in 2016 against the project’s approval due to inadequate consultation with First Nations groups further complicated the situation.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre suggested the potential revival of the Northern Gateway project by the federal cabinet, while Smith highlighted existing federal regulations hindering private sector involvement. However, a coalition of First Nations swiftly reiterated their opposition to such a project following Smith’s announcement, emphasizing their land rights and environmental concerns.
Smith expressed her government’s engagement efforts with Indigenous groups and hoped for their participation as project co-owners. Acknowledging past shortcomings, she emphasized the need for collaborative and improved approaches moving forward. The responsibility to address Indigenous and local concerns primarily falls on the proponent, currently Smith, with federal government involvement looming large as per Smith’s remarks.
The onus appears to be on Smith to engage with various stakeholders, including British Columbia Premier David Eby, to address concerns and align with federal expectations regarding consultations, environmental goals, and national objectives. Poilievre’s assertion that the pipeline’s fate rests solely with Prime Minister Carney underscores the political dynamics at play, emphasizing the project as a litmus test for the current administration.
Notably, past efforts to advance pipeline projects under previous administrations faced challenges in achieving lasting consensus on oil and climate policies. Despite talks of a grand bargain encompassing carbon capture projects, policy shifts in Alberta, and industry demands for regulatory changes, the sector’s emissions continue to rise, posing a significant challenge for achieving environmental goals.
Should Carney decide to engage with the pipeline proposal when concrete plans materialize, he may seek to navigate these complexities better than his predecessor to ensure a more sustainable and comprehensive approach to energy and environmental policy.