TransCanada Corp. has released a statement claiming that its Coastal GasLink pipeline project has now signed a total of 13 project agreements with First Nations. It also claims that it is still in talks with an additional eight First Nations along the proposed 670 km pipeline route from the Groundbirch area, near Dawson Creek, British Columbia (B.C.), to the proposed LNG Canada export facility near Kitimat, B.C.
The Coastal GasLink pipeline project President, Rick Gateman, said: “These groups have demonstrated their desire to contribute meaningfully and constructively throughout the lifecycle of this project.
"Our relationship with them, and the knowledge we have gained about their traditional use of the land, makes Coastal GasLink a better project."
Coastal GasLink is looking to involve native groups in the province’s LNG industry, including through skills training, employment and making use of local businesses and contracting opportunities.
Chief Joe Bevan, Kitselas First Nation – one of the many groups to have signed agreements with the projects – said: “We look forward to continuing our relationship with the Coastal GasLink team. We believe that meaningful participation can work to the benefit of our members and the project, and that we can achieve balance with protecting our environment.”
Edited from press release by David Rowlands