Carney Set to Discuss Major Projects with Coastal First Nations

Prime Minister Mark Carney will head to northern B. C. for a meeting with Coastal First Nations before his upcoming trip to China, as confirmed by a government official speaking to .

The official, who asked not to be named, indicated that the discussions are likely to include several topics, such as significant projects in the area and how both the federal government and Indigenous communities can work together to ensure these projects are developed “sustainably and in partnership.”

Carney is set to leave late Monday and will meet with Coastal First Nations on Tuesday. According to the official, the government’s agenda will focus on shared priorities like marine conservation, ocean protection, and enabling Indigenous communities to take charge of these initiatives.

Joining Carney on this visit will be Energy and Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson, Housing Minister Gregor Robertson, and B. C. Liberal MP Wade Grant.

Following this meeting, Carney is scheduled for an eight-day trip that includes stops in China, Qatar, and Davos, Switzerland for the World Economic Forum.

Coastal First Nations oppose pipeline from Alberta

Prince Rupert is close to where the proposed Ksi Lisims liquified natural gas (LNG) facility would be built in northern B. C., which is one of the major projects that the federal government has prioritized for fast-track permitting and approval.

This facility has also received support from the B. C. government and aims to export 12 million tonnes of LNG each year targeting Asian markets.

The project is being developed alongside the Nisga’a Nation but faces separate legal challenges from other First Nations groups.

A group called Coastal First Nations represents nine Indigenous nations in the region who have voiced strong opposition against a potential oil pipeline extending toward B. C.’s north coast.

The memorandum of understanding signed by Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith late last year outlines a possible path forward for that pipeline project as well as lifting an oil tanker ban along B. C.’s north coast.

However, Coastal First Nations assert that this pipeline project won’t ever materialize.

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