Métis leaders from Alberta’s Wood Buffalo region are accusing the federal government of sidelining them in discussions regarding the proposed Pacific Link pipeline project. Prime Minister Mark Carney met with several First Nations leaders before declaring the new West Coast oil pipeline as of national interest under the Building Canada Act. However, leaders from six Métis communities claim they were not consulted prior to the announcement.
During a news conference in Fort McMurray, Alberta, Métis leaders highlighted that they were not included in the joint federal-provincial news conference for the pipeline announcement on October 1, nor were they informed about ownership shares in the project. Kelly Myers, district captain for Fort McMurray Métis, emphasized their dismay, stating, “Silence implies consent, and that’s why we refuse to stay silent.”
The proposed Pacific Link pipeline aims to transport one million barrels of oil per day from Alberta’s oilsands region to tankers near Delta, British Columbia. Both the federal and provincial governments aim to secure construction approvals by September 2027, with the pipeline expected to be operational by 2032 or 2033.
Carney has pledged a 10% ownership stake for Indigenous communities, along with contracting and employment opportunities. He emphasized Indigenous involvement from the project’s inception, aiming to provide opportunities for prosperity through Pacific Link.
The Métis leaders representing communities in Fort McMurray, Fort Chipewyan, Fort McKay, Willow Lake, Conklin, and Chard expressed concerns and questions during the news conference, without outright opposition to the pipeline. Ruby Ladouceur, president of Fort Chipewyan Métis Nation, raised worries about potential increases in oilsands development and associated environmental risks.
Stella Lavallee, president of Willow Lake Métis Nation, criticized the lack of consultation, stating, “Anything done without us is actually against us.” Despite the federal government’s engagement with First Nations chiefs, Métis leaders felt marginalized in the decision-making process.
Zoe De Jonge, press secretary for Alberta Indigenous Relations Minister Rajan Sawhney, mentioned ongoing meetings with Indigenous leaders about the project. De Jonge affirmed the province’s commitment to engaging with First Nations and Métis communities, underlining the importance of maintaining relationships through ongoing dialogue and engagement.
