UBCIC Opposes Proposed Alberta-to-B.C. Oil Pipeline

Press Release

May 21, 2026

(xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil Waututh)/ Vancouver, B.C. – May 21, 2026) The Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs (UBCIC) is unequivocally opposed to renewed efforts by the federal and Alberta governments to advance a new oil pipeline to the British Columbia coast.

Recent announcements by Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith regarding a proposed pipeline agreement and accelerated project timelines represent yet another attempt to force unwanted fossil fuel infrastructure through First Nations territories without the free, prior, and informed consent of impacted Nations.

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, UBCIC President, stated, “Crown governments continue to speak the language of reconciliation while simultaneously attempting to fast-track projects that threaten our lands, waters, cultures, and future generations. First Nations in British Columbia have already made our positions on these projects abundantly clear. Reconciliation cannot coexist with the unilateral expansion of oil infrastructure through First Nations territories – the answer is still no!”

UBCIC warns that efforts to frame pipeline expansion that would override inherent and constitutionally protected First Nations title and rights as being in the “national interest” only serves to deepen divisions and stoke racial animus. Preservation of the diverse and productive economies that have been built on the British Columbia coast by First Nations and their partners while upholding the basic human rights of First Nations

Chief Councillor Linda Innes, UBCIC Vice-President added, “Canada cannot claim to uphold Indigenous rights and climate leadership while doubling down on fossil fuel expansion. The devastating impacts of climate change are already being felt by First Nations and non-Indigenous peoples across these territories. Instead of resurrecting a zombie pipeline, governments should be investing in a just transition that respects First Nations jurisdiction and protects future generations.”

“We are gravely concerned about ongoing political efforts to weaken environmental oversight and expedite approvals for major industrial projects under the guise of economic urgency.  Environmental organizations and legal advocates have also raised alarm about proposals to streamline approvals and weaken existing safeguards,” Chief Marilyn Slett, UBCIC Secretary-Treasurer, concluded. “The message from UBCIC is simple and unequivocal: our Nations will not be sacrificed for the political ambitions of Ottawa or Alberta.”

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Media inquiries:

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, President, 250-490-5314
Chief Councillor Linda Innes, Vice-President, 778-884-5663
Chief Marilyn Slett, Secretary-Treasurer, 250-957-7721

For more information, please visit www.ubcic.bc.ca

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