In the lead-up to unveiling the initial batch of national interest projects under Prime Minister Mark Carney’s administration, it has been revealed by sources to Radio-Canada that no oil pipeline is included on the list. Despite the government’s ambition to enhance Canada’s energy sector, there is a notable absence of pipeline projects being considered at this stage.
While Carney has not dismissed the possibility of supporting a new pipeline construction, he has emphasized the need to prioritize a select number of major projects, which may or may not include pipelines. Collaboration with the provinces has been highlighted as crucial by the prime minister in the decision-making process.
A Liberal insider has clarified that the exclusion of a pipeline from the initial project list does not signify a permanent rejection of such ventures. Additionally, the approval of a natural gas pipeline initiative remains a plausible option for future consideration.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has consistently advocated for the inclusion of an oil pipeline among the first wave of projects approved by the federal government. However, discussions between Smith and Carney over the summer revealed the necessity of private sector involvement for moving forward with any pipeline endeavor.
Citing regulatory barriers, Smith’s office has pointed to environmental policies such as emissions caps and tanker moratoriums as hindrances to pipeline development. The premier anticipates the official announcement of the project list before offering further commentary.
Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne has affirmed the government’s commitment to advancing projects that are of strategic national interest, aiming to revitalize the country’s infrastructure and economic landscape.
The decision to exclude a pipeline project from the initial announcements could potentially appease the progressive faction within the Liberal Party, which advocates for a stronger focus on climate issues. Recent legislative actions by Carney’s government have underscored a shift towards environmental priorities, including the suspension of minimum sales thresholds for zero-emission vehicles.
The completion of the Trans Mountain pipeline stands as the most recent oil project in Canada, with its expansion costs significantly surpassing initial estimates. The acquisition of the pipeline by the government in 2018 and subsequent budget overruns have drawn criticism from various political quarters.
As discussions continue between federal and provincial leaders, the unveiling of the national interest projects is anticipated to mark the beginning of a series of infrastructure and resource initiatives under Carney’s leadership.