Key facts
- Cold Lake First Nations is challenging the designation of the Pacific Link oil pipeline as a project of national interest.
- The First Nation filed an application for judicial review in Federal Court.
- CLFNS stated the challenge is to protect its Treaty rights, lands, and interests.
- Canada and Alberta will share equal ownership of the Pacific Link pipeline.
- Indigenous communities will be offered a minimum of 10% ownership interest.
Cold Lake First Nations (CLFNS) has filed an application for judicial review in Federal Court, challenging the Canadian federal government's decision to designate the new West Coast oil pipeline, now known as Pacific Link, as a project of national interest. CLFNS stated that this action is to protect its Treaty rights, lands, and the Nation’s interests for future generations.
Last week, the federal government officially listed Pacific Link as a project of national interest, a designation that would fast-track its development. Canada and Alberta are advancing the pipeline in partnership, with both governments set to share equal ownership. The project aims to export additional crude oil volumes to Asia, reducing dependence on U.S. exports. Indigenous communities will be offered a minimum of 10% ownership, financed through government loan guarantee programs. Pembina Pipeline Corporation is providing development expertise, with Trans Mountain Corporation leading the project.
CLFNS stated that it has repeatedly asked Canada for consultation on Pacific Link and proposed options for engagement, but Canada proceeded with the national interest designation without meaningful consultation. The First Nation expressed its commitment to collaborative work but placed the responsibility on Canada to take the first step outside the courtroom.