Premier Danielle Smith met yesterday afternoon with representatives from the District of Kitimat and the Haisla Nation to discuss the future of energy development in the region.
In a joint statement, the District and the Haisla Nation said they used the meeting to emphasize that Kitimat’s role in Canada’s energy sector must continue to reflect their values of sustainability, Indigenous leadership and environmental protection.
The two governments said their territory has become a key part of Canada’s resource development, citing projects such as Rio Tinto, LNG Canada, Cedar LNG and Coastal GasLink as examples of how the region has contributed to positioning Canada as a leader in sustainable natural-resource development.
While both communities said that they welcome new projects, but only if those new projects respect local values and recognize the work that Kitimat and the Haisla Nation have already done for the national economy.
The Haisla Nation reiterated its opposition to oil pipelines and export terminals in its territory. More than a decade after Kitimat voted against the Northern Gateway pipeline, the Nation said its position hasn’t changed. It told Smith directly that they still oppose any oil pipeline or export facility in their territory.
The District and the Haisla Nation say they look forward to working with all levels of government, neighbouring Nations, and industry partners to support economic development and diversification that aligns with reconciliation and is beneficial to the region and all Canadians.
