British Columbia Premier David Eby has criticized the federal government for agreeing to push for a new bitumen pipeline to the West Coast, saying it rewards Alberta for 'bad behaviour.' The deal was signed between Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith.
According to reports, the agreement includes an 'implementation framework' for the pipeline project, which would transport oil from Alberta's oil sands to a port in British Columbia for export. Eby argued that the federal government should instead focus on supporting clean energy projects and protecting the environment.
The pipeline proposal has been a contentious issue, with environmental groups and some Indigenous communities opposing it due to concerns about potential spills and impacts on marine ecosystems. The federal government has not yet provided details on the specific route or timeline for the project.
Eby's comments come amid ongoing tensions between British Columbia and Alberta over energy policy and resource development. The B.C. government has previously opposed similar pipeline projects, citing environmental risks and the need to transition to a low-carbon economy.