Alberta/BC Framework Agreement Does Not Meet First Nations Conditions

PDF Version
For Immediate Release
November 6, 2013

Dakelh Territory/Prince George BC –This week the provinces of British Columbia (BC) and Alberta agreed to a framework agreement on oil pipelines. The Carrier Sekani Tribal Council (CSTC) remains steadfast with its members that are absolutely opposed to the Enbridge Northern Gateway pipeline, or any other heavy oil pipelines proposed in CSTC territory.

Tribal Chief Terry Teegee stated, “The BC/Alberta Framework Agreement hasn’t met First Nations’ condition of free, prior and informed consent (FPIC). FPIC is an international standard that is much more than ‘consultation’, it’s about the need for ‘shared-decision making’ authority on natural resource development. Our communities have made an informed decision that the Enbridge Northern Gateway Pipeline project is not worth the risk.”

BC set out 5 conditions for heavy oil pipeline projects like the Enbridge Northern Gateway and Kinder Morgan Trans Mountain Expansion to be approved by BC. The Alberta government is leading the charge on a national energy strategy, which BC has agreed to participate in its development. The CSTC and its member First Nations have not been invited nor involved in development of either of these strategies. The rights of First Nations, and all Canadians, are subverted by these strategies as they are focused on liquidating our resources for short-term gains by multi-national companies, and foreign companies owned by governments.

“Clark and Redford’s idea of expediting the approval of the Enbridge Northern Gateway won’t work”, stated Teegee. Over 130 First Nations communities, several municipal governments, and a large majority of BC citizens oppose the Enbridge project. “We will use any means at our disposal to ensure that our lands and waters are protected for today and future generations.” Teegee concluded, “We encourage those British Columbians and Canadians to assert their collective disapproval of these types of projects, and participate in the upcoming National Day of Action: Defending our Climate.”

The CSTC and other organizations have planned a rally on Saturday, November 16, 2013 at the Prince George Civic Centre, starting at 1:00 PM. The rally includes a march to MP Dick Harris’ Office, to bring the message of ‘Defending our Climate’ as well as confirming once again that the Enbridge Northern Gateway Project is not worth the risk.

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For Further Information Contact:
Tribal Chief Terry Teegee, office 250-562-6279 ext. 223, cell (250) 640-3256