Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to visit Northern British Columbia to hold discussions with Coastal First Nations before embarking on his trip to China, as confirmed by a government source to CBC News. The source, who requested anonymity, mentioned that the meeting agenda will encompass various topics, such as ongoing major initiatives in the area and ways for the federal government and Indigenous groups to collaborate on ensuring sustainable project development.
Carney is slated to depart on Tuesday after meeting with Coastal First Nations, focusing on shared priorities like marine conservation, ocean protection, and empowering Indigenous communities to take the lead in these endeavors. Accompanying him on the visit will be Energy and Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson, Housing Minister Gregor Robertson, and B.C. Liberal MP Wade Grant.
Following his discussions in Northern B.C., Carney will embark on an eight-day journey that includes stops in China, Qatar, and Davos, Switzerland, for the World Economic Forum. Notably, Prince Rupert is close to the proposed Ksi Lisims liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility in Northern British Columbia, a key project earmarked by the federal government for expedited permitting and approval. The facility, supported by the B.C. government, aims to export 12 million tonnes of LNG annually to Asian markets, with development efforts in collaboration with the Nisga’a Nation but facing legal challenges from other First Nations.
Coastal First Nations, a coalition of nine First Nations in the area, have strongly voiced opposition to a potential oil pipeline to B.C.’s North Coast. While a memorandum of understanding between Ottawa and Alberta, inked by Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, outlines a framework for the proposed pipeline and the removal of an oil tanker ban along B.C.’s North Coast, Coastal First Nations remain steadfast in their stance that the pipeline venture will not proceed.