First Nations, Province in pipeline agreements

A further two First Nations have reached pipeline benefits agreements with the government of British Columbia (B.C.) to bring increased economic development and further prosperity to their communities.

Doig River First Nation and Halfway River First Nation are signatories to Treaty 8 in northern B.C. and have traditional territories that include the routes for TransCanada’s proposed Prince Rupert Gas Transmission (PRGT) and Coastal GasLink natural gas pipeline projects. The agreements signed with the Province ensure the economic growth generated by the pipelines and an LNG export industry in B.C. will benefit their membership.

Project milestones

Doig River First Nation will receive approximately CAN$1.29 million as PRGT project milestones are reached, while Halfway River First Nation will receive approximately CAN$2 million.

The Province will also provide Doig River First Nation with approximately CAN$1.35 million as Coastal GasLink project milestones are reached. Approximately, CAN$2.4 million will also be provided to Halfway River First Nation.

In addition to construction-related milestone payments, the two First Nations will receive a share of CAN$10 million a year in ongoing benefits per project.

Comments

John Rustad, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation

“These agreements with the Halfway River and Doig River First Nations are an important step towards sharing the prosperity that comes with natural gas development. The growth of the LNG sector is bringing substantial financial benefits, jobs and new business opportunities to First Nations communities throughout northern B.C.”

Rich Coleman, Minister of Natural Gas Development

“Benefit agreements with First Nations are a path to greater economic activity and prosperity for all British Columbians. They offer First Nations the opportunity to partner in economic development in a manner that provides industry with the certainty needed to make final investment decisions.”

Chief Norman Davis, Doig River First Nation

“Our pipeline benefit agreements with the Province have created even greater possibilities for economic development within the Doig River First Nation. Development can’t happen at the expense of the environment, though, which is why we look forward to further work with the Province on environmental stewardship opportunities.”

Chief Darlene Hunter, Halfway River First Nation

“Being an active partner in the LNG industry will help us safeguard our traditional values and provide benefits, including improved access to skills training and quality jobs.”

Adapted from press release by Katie Woodward

Read the article online at: https://www.lngindustry.com/liquid-natural-gas/02062015/more-british-columbia-pipeline-agreements-871/