Métis leaders from the Wood Buffalo area in Alberta are alleging that the federal government left them out of talks regarding the proposed Pacific Link pipeline project. Despite Prime Minister Mark Carney meeting with several First Nations leaders to discuss the issue before declaring the West Coast oil pipeline as nationally significant under the Building Canada Act, leaders from 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 both the federal-provincial joint news conference on October 1 where the pipeline designation was announced and were not informed about ownership shares in the project. District captain for Fort McMurray Métis, Kelly Myers, emphasized their dissatisfaction, stating, “Silence is acceptance, and that’s why we’re not silent.”
The proposed Pacific Link pipeline aims to transport one million barrels of oil daily from Alberta’s oilsands to tankers near Delta, British Columbia, if approved. The federal and provincial governments anticipate construction approvals by September 2027 and aim to have the pipeline operational by 2032 or 2033. Carney has pledged a 10% ownership stake for Indigenous communities, along with opportunities for Indigenous contracting and employment.
Métis leaders representing communities in Fort McMurray, Fort Chipewyan, Fort McKay, Willow Lake, Conklin, and Chard have expressed concerns and questions about the project. While not opposing the pipeline outright, they seek to address their apprehensions before any federal approvals are granted. President of Fort Chipewyan Métis Nation, Ruby Ladouceur, fears the pipeline will spur more oilsands development, potentially increasing environmental risks.
Stella Lavallee, president of Willow Lake Métis Nation, criticized the lack of consultation, noting that Carney met with First Nations chiefs on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation but overlooked the Métis leaders in the region affected by the pipeline. The Alberta government reaffirmed its dedication to engaging with Métis communities, emphasizing ongoing dialogue and interaction to uphold relationships.