B.C. Premier Rejects Pipeline Proposals

In a bold response to Ontario Premier Doug Ford, B.C. Premier David Eby firmly rejected any notion of supporting a second oil pipeline through British Columbia. Eby made it clear that his stance remains unchanged despite Ford's recent suggestions that he might reconsider.

No New Pipelines in B.C.

Eby pointed out the existing TMX pipeline, which is publicly owned and already operational in the province, reinforcing the stance that no new oil tanker routes would be allowed off the northern coast of B.C.

Setting the Record Straight

He emphasized that it isn’t his responsibility to inform Ford about the improbability of a new tunnel under Toronto’s Highway 401, or to correct Alberta Premier Danielle Smith on her ambitious visions for a pipeline linking Alberta to northern B.C., which she admits is 'many, many years off' with no proponents in sight.

Prioritizing Local Interests

Instead, Eby stated his primary focus is to safeguard the interests of British Columbia by pushing forward with viable, 'shovel-ready' projects that can benefit the local economy.

Ford’s Confidence Shaken

Ford had expressed confidence that Eby would collaborate on finding a solution concerning the second pipeline in a meeting set between the premiers and Prime Minister Mark Carney. However, Eby’s current stance suggests that reconciliation of such ideas remains a distant possibility.

Eby on Trade Mission in Japan

Currently on a 10-day trade mission in Osaka, Japan, Eby dispatched deputy premier Niki Sharma to represent B.C. at the Saskatoon meeting, further reiterating that his priorities lie firmly in enhancing economic opportunities for British Columbia, rather than entertaining controversial pipeline discussions.