A recent survey by the Angus Reid Institute reveals that a majority of Canadians, including those in British Columbia, are in favor of a proposed pipeline connecting northern Alberta to B.C. However, opinions are divided on expediting the project.
Overall, 59% of respondents nationwide expressed their support for the pipeline, with Albertans leading at 78% approval. Despite B.C. Premier David Eby’s opposition to the pipeline, the survey indicates that 56% of British Columbians back the initiative.
Tensions have risen between Eby and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith over the latter’s proposal for a new bitumen pipeline. Alberta intends to submit a formal application for the project and has allocated $14 million towards it. Eby has raised concerns about Alberta being the sole proponent and the potential impact on B.C.’s northern waters due to Ottawa’s oil tanker restrictions.
The survey found that while 55% of Canadians support the fast-tracking of the pipeline, some are cautious about potential environmental impacts and the need for consultation with Indigenous communities.
According to Jon Roe from the Angus Reid Institute, Canadians endorse the project but want to ensure that environmental safeguards, including Indigenous consultations, are not overlooked during the project’s progression.
The poll also highlighted that 46% of Canadians, including 52% of British Columbians, believe that any province housing a pipeline should have veto rights unless specific conditions are met.
Richard Masson, an executive fellow at the University of Calgary, suggested that the survey results may reflect a shift in Canadian priorities following disruptions in the U.S.-Canada relationship under former President Donald Trump. Economic growth is now considered a higher priority by 57% of Canadians.
Regarding the federal oil tanker ban, nearly half of Canadians either want it repealed or set aside for the proposed northern B.C. pipeline project. In B.C., 44% lean towards permitting tanker traffic on the northern coast.
While challenges remain with the oil tanker ban and public sentiments toward the pipeline, the future of the project in B.C. hinges on various factors, including political dynamics and risk assessments.
