Métis leaders from the Wood Buffalo region in Alberta are criticizing the federal government for not involving them in talks regarding the proposed Pacific Link pipeline project. Prime Minister Mark Carney held discussions with various First Nations leaders before declaring the West Coast oil pipeline as being in the national interest under the Building Canada Act. However, leaders of six Métis communities claim they were not consulted prior to the announcement.
During a press conference in Fort McMurray, Alberta, the Métis leaders highlighted that they were excluded from the joint federal-provincial news conference announcing the pipeline on October 1. They were also unaware of the ownership stakes associated with the project. Kelly Myers, the district captain for Fort McMurray Métis, emphasized the importance of not remaining silent, stating that the lack of inclusion was disrespectful.
The proposed Pacific Link pipeline aims to transport one million barrels of oil per day from Alberta’s oilsands region to tankers near Delta, British Columbia. The federal and Alberta governments aim to secure construction approvals by September 2027, with the pipeline expected to be operational by 2032 or 2033.
Carney has pledged a 10% ownership stake for Indigenous communities in the project, along with providing contracting and employment opportunities. He emphasized the involvement of Indigenous peoples in the pipeline development from the outset to share in the prosperity it will generate.
The Métis leaders representing communities in Fort McMurray, Fort Chipewyan, Fort McKay, Willow Lake, Conklin, and Chard expressed their concerns and questions at the news conference, indicating they do not oppose the pipeline but have reservations they want to address before any federal approvals are granted. Ruby Ladouceur, president of Fort Chipewyan Métis Nation, expressed apprehensions about increased oilsands development leading to potential environmental impacts.
Stella Lavallee, president of Willow Lake Métis Nation, criticized the lack of consultation with Métis communities despite the pipeline passing through their region. Discussions with Alberta Indigenous Relations Minister Rajan Sawhney’s press secretary, Zoe De Jonge, revealed ongoing engagements with Métis leaders by the provincial government.
The commitment to engage with First Nations and Métis communities remains a priority for Alberta’s government, according to De Jonge, who mentioned Minister Sawhney’s interactions with Métis leaders across the Wood Buffalo region and the government’s dedication to sustaining those relationships through ongoing dialogue and engagement.