Liberal Member of Parliament Steven Guilbeault has resigned from his cabinet position due to the federal government’s recent agreement with Alberta on a new bitumen pipeline to the British Columbia coast. In a social media post, Guilbeault stated his decision was based on his commitment to fighting climate change and protecting the environment.
Guilbeault, who held multiple ministerial roles, expressed strong opposition to the agreement, emphasizing the importance of environmental issues. Despite stepping down from the cabinet, he will continue to serve as a Liberal MP.
The agreement signed by Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith outlines the construction of a pipeline to transport one million barrels of oil daily to the Pacific coast for export to Asian markets. Guilbeault raised concerns about the environmental impact of the deal, referencing the suspension of the federal oil and gas emissions cap and changes to Alberta’s Clean Electricity Regulations.
Under the agreement, the industrial carbon price in Alberta will rise to a minimum of $130 per tonne, with a commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Carney hailed the agreement as a model of cooperative federalism, emphasizing partnership and trust.
Despite differing views, Carney praised Guilbeault’s contributions to sustainability and expressed gratitude for his counsel. The Quebec MP, known for his environmental activism, co-founded an environmental organization and previously served as the Minister of Environment and Climate Change.
Green Party Leader Elizabeth May called on Guilbeault to join her caucus following his resignation, emphasizing the need for strong climate action in Canadian politics. Carney reaffirmed the government’s commitment to meeting climate targets despite Guilbeault’s departure from the cabinet.