Lake Babine to receive pipeline benefits

The Lake Babine First Nation is the latest in British Columbia (B.C.) to welcome benefits from natural gas pipeline developments in the LNG sector.

Earlier this week, Lake Babine entered into a project agreement with TransCanada’s Prince Rupert Gas Transmission (PRGT) project, under which it will receive various pipeline benefits. Lake Babine has now signed a similar agreement with the Province of B.C.

Economic growth

The Nation has traditional territory along the proposed route of the PRGT pipeline project. The agreement with B.C. ensures that both the economic growth generated by the pipeline and an LNG export industry will benefit their membership.

If the proposed project proceeds, Lake Babine Nation will receive approximately CAN$3.56 million in one-off payments from the Province as milestones are reached. The group is also entitled to a share of CAN$10 million per year in ongoing benefits for First Nations along the pipeline route.

Comments

John Rustad, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation

“We are witnessing increasing First Nations’ support for LNG because of the transformational opportunity it represents for their communities. In addition to financial benefits agreements, we’re working with nations throughout the North on related opportunities. This includes working with nations on environmental stewardship projects and a new Aboriginal skills training fund developed as part of B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint.”

Chief Wilf Adam, Lake Babine Nation

“This project meets Lake Babine Nation's conditions for consent: it can be built in a way that is safe for our territory and resources; it has been developed and will be built with our meaningful involvement; and it will bring significant economic benefits to our people. Lake Babine Nation looks forward to a successful PRGT project.”

Rich Coleman, Minister of Natural Gas Development

“Sharing the benefits of natural gas pipeline projects with First Nations offers them resources to partner in economic development and complements industry impact benefit agreements that provide jobs and business opportunities. These partnerships are a powerful way for government and First Nations to work together to help grow the LNG industry.”

Adapted from press release by Katie Woodward

Read the article online at: https://www.lngindustry.com/liquid-natural-gas/14052015/lake-babine-and-province-sign-benefits-agreement-753/