The Haida and Gitga’at Nations joined another pair of coastal First Nations in Calgary, AB to advise against a proposed northern pipeline route.
The Haida and Gitga’at Nations met with the Heiltsuk and Kitasoo Xai’xais Nations and the CEOs of major Canadian pipeline companies. During meetings with Pembina Pipeline Corporation and Trans Mountain Corporation, the four nations presented a joint letter on behalf of six northwest First Nations opposing the proposed pipeline and urging companies to stay away from the project. The letter also outlined the legal and financial risks associated with supporting a crude oil pipeline and tanker project.
A pipeline project needs First Nations consent for approval, which will not be given considering the risks, said Haida Nation president Jason Alsop.
“In a recent meeting with our Nations, Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed that his government will seek our free, prior, and informed consent regarding potential projects in our territories. As the inherent title holders of our territories, we remain united in our opposition to crude oil tankers in our waters. There is no pathway to yes for us when it comes to this level of risk to our food security, culture, and way of life.”
The Gitga’at Nation helped defeat the Enbridge pipeline project and will help defeat this one if necessary, said Gitga’at chief councillor-elect Arnold Clifton Sr.
“Gitga’at First Nation has been steadfast and consistent in our opposition to oil tanker traffic in our territories for more than 50 years. Our unwavering commitment to defending our people and territory from oil tankers – on the water, in the boardroom and in the courts – defeated the Enbridge project and any new Northwest Coast pipeline and tanker project can expect to meet the same fate.”
