Energy Minister Tim Hodgson responded to inquiries about the potential repeal of the tanker ban in B.C.’s northern waters by dismissing them as hypothetical. He emphasized that Alberta has not yet formally presented a pipeline proposal for evaluation.
During a press conference in Montreal, Hodgson commented on Alberta’s intention to propose a new bitumen pipeline to B.C.’s northern coast, a move that faced criticism from B.C. Premier David Eby. Hodgson stated that if Alberta decided to be the proponent and invest in the pipeline project, they had the right to do so. He added that any evaluation would occur once the project was formally submitted.
Alberta justified its role as the proponent for the pipeline application by citing a lack of private industry commitment due to existing federal regulations, such as the 2019 restrictions on oil tankers in B.C.’s northern waters. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith emphasized the need to address the tanker ban before proceeding with the pipeline project.
B.C. Energy Minister Adrian Dix emphasized the importance of the tanker ban in protecting the province’s coast and economy during an interview. He highlighted existing projects that have proponents and federal support, contrasting them with Alberta’s pipeline proposal lacking a solid business case.
Executive Chair of Cenovus Energy, Alex Pourbaix, disagreed with B.C.’s argument against the pipeline project, citing Canada’s vast oil resources and global demand. Pourbaix explained Alberta’s strategy to engage with the federal government to amend legislation hindering development before transitioning to private sector involvement.
Smith expressed optimism that Ottawa would reconsider the tanker restrictions following her discussions with Prime Minister Mark Carney. She vowed to pursue substantial changes to the Impact Assessment Act and the proposed federal cap on oil and gas sector emissions.
The Alberta government plans to submit its pipeline application to the Major Projects Office in spring 2026.
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