B.C. Premier David Eby, accompanied by representatives of various First Nations from the northern coast of British Columbia, gathered on Wednesday to endorse and formally endorse a petition requesting Ottawa to uphold the ban on oil tankers in the northern waters of the province. The North Coast Protection Declaration represents the latest effort by British Columbia to encourage the federal government to safeguard the environment and the self-governance of First Nations. This initiative comes in response to Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s push for a new privately-operated pipeline that aims to transport crude oil to the northern coast of British Columbia for export to Asia.
According to the declaration, any potential spill of crude oil in the region would not only devastate billions of dollars in economic activities along the coast but also lead to long-term adverse effects such as lost livelihoods and irreparable ecological harm. Premier Eby strongly criticized the idea of lifting the ban, stating that it “makes absolutely no sense.”
Local residents have consistently stressed the importance of preserving the ecological integrity of the area. Marilyn Slett, president of the Coastal First Nations and elected chief councillor for Heiltsuk First Nation, emphasized that the region remains one of the most biologically diverse and productive ecosystems globally, expressing the community’s desire to maintain their traditional way of life intertwined with a healthy marine environment.
Eby, Slett, and a coalition of other coastal First Nation leaders jointly endorsed the declaration during the 10th B.C. Cabinet and First Nations Leaders’ Gathering in Vancouver. The declaration, spanning nine paragraphs, underscores the interdependence of the North Coast’s environment and its economic drivers.
The voluntary exclusion zone over the coastal area has been in effect since 1985, and in 2019, the federal government enacted the Oil Tanker Moratorium Act, which prohibits the transport, loading, or unloading of oil tankers carrying more than 12,500 metric tons of crude or persistent oil in specific areas of British Columbia’s northern waters. Concerns regarding the potential threat to this longstanding protection arose with the introduction of the Building Canada Act by Ottawa, which enables expedited approval of major projects deemed to be in the national interest, potentially bypassing existing regulations.
While some First Nations have voiced support for a new pipeline to the B.C. coast, citing potential economic benefits and reconciliation opportunities, Premier Eby emphasized the necessity of safeguarding British Columbia’s waters. He denounced the divisive rhetoric coming from certain quarters in Alberta and emphasized that the declaration reflects a longstanding consensus spanning five decades along the North Coast.
Several Indigenous leaders, including Trevor Makadahay and Ellis Ross, have emphasized the importance of balancing economic development with environmental protection and upholding treaty rights. Makadahay highlighted the potential benefits of a project while stressing the need for collaboration and environmental safeguards, while Ross underscored the federal processes in place to engage with affected First Nations.
Eby reiterated that there is currently no concrete plan for a pipeline across the north, emphasizing the absence of a defined route, proponent, or financing for such a project. The office of Alberta Premier Danielle Smith acknowledged Eby’s concerns, recognizing the importance of a credible proponent and robust engagement with First Nations communities, urging patience as the process unfolds. The statement called on the federal government to support the project, which is seen as unlocking economic opportunities for millions of Albertans.
