B.C. First Nations Leader Reconsiders Northern Gateway Pipeline Amid U.S. Trade Tensions
VANCOUVER – In a surprising shift, Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, president of the Union of BC Indian Chiefs, has reversed his longstanding opposition to the scrapped Northern Gateway pipeline, citing growing economic and geopolitical concerns.
The pipeline, which would connect Alberta’s oil sands to the Pacific Ocean for export, was canceled in 2016 amid widespread opposition from Indigenous communities, environmentalists, and other stakeholders. However, Phillip now believes the changing economic landscape leaves Canada with “no choice” but to reconsider the project.
“A Different Time”: Why Phillip Changed His Stance
Phillip acknowledged his active resistance to Northern Gateway during its original proposal but described the current circumstances as markedly different. His comments follow Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s recent call to “immediately start” construction of the pipeline to diversify Canada’s export markets in response to threatened tariffs on Canadian goods by former U.S. President Donald Trump.
“If Canada doesn’t build that kind of infrastructure, Trump will,” Phillip warned, expressing concerns over potential U.S. projects being developed without regard for environmental protections or adherence to legal standards.
Indigenous Leaders Call for Inclusion in Policy Discussions
Phillip’s remarks come during a high-level gathering in Vancouver between British Columbia’s provincial cabinet and First Nations leaders. The meeting aims to address co-ordinated strategies to counter Trump’s tariff threats while strengthening Canada’s economic resilience.
Despite the urgency of the situation, Indigenous leaders, including First Nations Summit Chief Cheryl Casimer and Regional Chief Terry Teegee of the B.C. Assembly of First Nations, have criticized the lack of consultation with Indigenous communities. They emphasize the need for a “Team Canada” approach that includes First Nations at the decision-making table.
“No one has approached Indigenous communities about collaborating yet,” Phillip stated, reiterating the importance of Indigenous voices in shaping policies that affect both the environment and economic opportunities.
Why Northern Gateway Could Return to the Forefront
The Northern Gateway pipeline was once a polarizing project, sparking debates over environmental risks, Indigenous sovereignty, and economic priorities. While the Trudeau government scrapped the project in favor of other energy strategies, recent global events and trade pressures could revive discussions about its feasibility.
Proponents argue that the pipeline is vital for Canada to diversify its energy export markets beyond the United States, especially as geopolitical tensions continue to disrupt global trade. Critics, however, caution that any renewed consideration must prioritize environmental sustainability and Indigenous consent.
Next Steps in Canada’s Response to U.S. Tariffs
As discussions between B.C.’s provincial government and First Nations leaders unfold, co-ordinated responses to U.S. trade policies remain a top priority. Whether the Northern Gateway pipeline resurfaces as a viable option will depend on a range of factors, including federal leadership, market conditions, and the ability to address longstanding concerns from Indigenous communities and environmental advocates.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
Source : The Canadian Press
