The leadership of a First Nation in southern Manitoba is urging the provincial government to eliminate a gas main that traverses its land, citing safety concerns and lack of community benefits.
Roseau River Anishinabe First Nation has sent a letter indicating their intention to take legal action if steps are not taken to remove the gas line, which intersects a significant portion of the main reserve. The community asserts that the gas line offers no economic advantages and poses safety risks like fires and explosions.
According to a 2024 report from Manitoba Hydro, although the gas line passes through Roseau River, the First Nation does not have access to natural gas services for its homes or energy needs. The line primarily serves neighboring regions and does not benefit the community directly.
The gas main, located along Provincial Road 201 and crossing beneath the Red River, will connect two segments of a new 36.6-kilometer natural gas transmission line linking Dominion City and Altona. Construction is scheduled to commence this summer following environmental approvals granted by the province in March.
The Hydro report highlights that the new transmission line will enhance the gas network’s capacity in southern Manitoba to meet the growing demand from urban development and agriculture. It assures that the project will not disturb Roseau’s territory, as the existing line was placed within public land along the road.
Despite assurances, the First Nation has expressed concerns about construction-related issues, safety protocols for potential leaks or explosions, and historical incidents of gas line accidents in southern Manitoba. The community demands fair compensation, revenue sharing, and employment opportunities resulting from the project.
Roseau River emphasized that unauthorized entry onto their lands will be considered trespassing, and they are prepared to take measures to prevent access to the gas line. The leadership is adamant about protecting their treaty rights and ensuring that any engagement with the project is conducted respectfully and equitably.
Manitoba Hydro and the provincial government are yet to provide a formal response to the community’s concerns. Chief Gary Roberts has refrained from commenting, awaiting the government’s position on the matter.