Métis leaders from the Wood Buffalo region in Alberta are claiming that they have been left out of talks concerning the proposed Pacific Link pipeline project by the Canadian government. Despite meeting with various First Nations leaders to discuss the project, Prime Minister Mark Carney did not engage with the leaders of six Métis communities before declaring the pipeline as being in the national interest.
During a press conference in Fort McMurray, Métis leaders highlighted that they were not included in the joint federal-provincial announcement of the pipeline project on October 1 and were unaware of the ownership stakes involved. Kelly Myers, district captain for Fort McMurray Métis, emphasized the importance of not staying silent to demonstrate their dissatisfaction with the exclusion.
If approved, the Pacific Link pipeline is set to transport one million barrels of oil per day from Alberta’s oilsands to a deepwater port near Delta, B.C. Both the federal and Alberta governments aim to secure construction approvals by September 2027 and have the pipeline operational by 2032 or 2033.
Carney has assured that Indigenous communities will have the opportunity to obtain a 10% ownership stake in the project, along with prospects for Indigenous contracting and employment. Métis leaders representing communities in Fort McMurray, Fort Chipewyan, Fort McKay, Willow Lake, Conklin, and Chard, expressed their concerns and desire to address questions before any final approvals are granted.
Ruby Ladouceur, president of Fort Chipewyan Métis Nation, voiced apprehensions regarding the potential increase in oilsands development due to the pipeline, expressing worries about environmental risks. The Métis leaders emphasized the importance of being consulted and informed about projects that directly affect their regions.
The Alberta government’s press secretary, Zoe De Jonge, stated that the province has been engaging with Métis leaders and communities in the Wood Buffalo region regarding the Pacific Link pipeline project. The commitment to ongoing dialogue and engagement with Indigenous communities remains a key priority for the government.
Overall, Métis leaders are advocating for meaningful involvement in the decision-making process and are seeking transparency and inclusion in discussions related to the Pacific Link pipeline project.