Dakelh Territory, Prince George, British Columbia. Canada. – Yesterday Enbridge released information that is has signed non-binding agreements (called ‘Precedent Agreements’) that purport to demonstrate that there are willing buyers of dirty oil sands that might be available if their Northern Gateway Pipeline project is built. Over 100 First Nations are objecting to the Enbridge pipeline being built through their territories and have vowed to use all legal means to protect their homelands and the pristine ecosystems that are under threat by Enbridge. The CSTC stands united with all First Nations, local municipalities and Canadian citizens that are opposed to the proposed Enbridge pipeline.
Tribal Chief David Luggi stated, “It’s been obvious who was behind the financing of this doomed project, and now we have confirmation that Sinopec, a huge Chinese refining company, is one of those interested in the project.” Luggi continued, “Enbridge is setting up these companies for disappointment, because as far as we are concerned, this project is not going ahead. They are misleading investors that they are achieving certainty. Carrier Sekani First Nations have unequivocally said no to this project, and it is not allowed in our territories.”
“Enbridge can be fully subscribed for their delivery of dirty oil to refineries in Asia, however they still do not have First Nations approval,” said Vice Tribal Chief Terry Teegee. He added, “The unilateral approach of these major project reviews, via the Joint Review Panel and the National Energy Board, are not working for First Nations as they cannot appropriately address our aboriginal rights and title, including our right to be part of the decision-making process. Our people have reviewed the risks to the proposed project and concluded that it was not worth the risk, and we have said ‘NO’ to this project.”
In 2006 the CSTC completed an Aboriginal Interest and Use Study (AIUS) that examined the impacts from the proposed pipeline. First Nations in BC are actively seeking to work with investors that are respectful of Aboriginal rights and title, particularly those from the Asia-Pacific region. The CSTC member First Nations are not adverse to development, but it must be appropriate, respectful and equitable for current and future generations.
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For more information please contact:
Tribal Chief David Luggi: Office (250) 562-6279 e.222. Cell: (250) 640-6622
Vice Tribal Chief Terry Teegee: Office (250) 562-6279 e.223. Cell: (250) 640-3256