The fate of northern British Columbia First Nations traditional territories is being discussed this week in a series of workshops in communities along the proposed Gateway pipeline route. This proposed pipeline would cross dozens of First Nations territories in British Columbia, most of whom do not yet have treaties signed with federal and provincial governments.
"After attending yesterday's workshop, we learned a lot about the toxic effects of oil and gas development," said Alphonse Gagnon, a Hereditary Chief of the Wet'suwet'en First Nation, and whose traditional name is Chief KlomKhun. "If it all goes ahead - seismic blasting, well drilling, roads, pipelines and other infrastructure - we could forever lose the ability to exercise our constitutionally guaranteed aboriginal rights," added Chief KlomKhun.
First Nations who do not have treaties signed with federal and provincial governments stand to lose potential treaty settlement lands by proposed pipelines. Similar projects such as the Mackenzie Valley Pipeline have been put on hold until treaties are settled. "First Nations hold aboriginal title to lands along the proposed pipeline routes, so we are seeking the highest level of involvement in the decision making on these projects," said Catherine Lessard, Vice Tribal Chief of the Carrier Sekani Tribal Council. "The Gateway project is proceeding at pace that prevents our meaningful involvement," Ms. Lessard added.
At least six large-scale pipeline and energy projects are proposed within the next five years. If pipeline infrastructure is in place, it will be easier to open up areas such as the Nechako and Bowser Basins in central British Columbia. The pipeline routes affect dozens of First Nations communities and could negatively impact British Columbia's fisheries, disturb wildlife habitat and contribute to global climate change.
"The importance of unity cannot be underestimated," said Chief KlomKhun. "The fish farm crisis has taught us that we need to come together to protect our salmon; we feel the same about pipeline development," he added.
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For more information:
Karen Campbell, Staff Counsel, the Pembina Institute
Cell: 604-928-2258
Catherine Lessard, Vice Tribal Chief, Carrier Sekani Tribal Council
Cell: 250-565-5139.
Download fact sheets for more information on impacts of oil and gas development in British Columbia: www.pembina.org/bc
Fort St. James Workshop: Thursday, October 19
Kwah Hall, Fort St. James
Final release in the series:
The role of women is becoming increasingly important in mobilizing communities to ensure that resource development is conducted in a responsible manner and in creating policies and practices that ensure that oil and gas development on First Nations territories is sustainable and economically sound for communities along the pipeline route.
Last Stop on the Road Show: Friday, October 20
Prince George
UNBC Conference Centre, Room 5-176