Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announced plans on October 1 to apply for a new oil pipeline to the northwestern coast of British Columbia. She emphasized that this project could provide significant economic benefits for Canada, potentially adding $55 billion to the country's gross domestic product if previous pipeline projects had been completed.

Smith highlighted Alberta's oil reserves, valued at over $9 trillion, as a source of immense opportunity for the nation. She stated that this wealth could generate hundreds of billions in government revenue, which could be used to enhance social programs like healthcare and education, support national security commitments, and promote economic prosperity for Indigenous Peoples. The project is also expected to create jobs and stimulate economic growth across Canada.

Recent polling indicates that three-quarters of Canadians support the construction of a new oil pipeline. Smith noted that global demand for Canadian oil and gas is rising, particularly from countries in Asia and Europe. She argued that addressing energy poverty worldwide is a moral imperative, stating, "This is not just a question of Alberta’s energy; it is a global moral imperative."

To capitalize on this opportunity, Smith called for significant reforms to Canada’s regulatory environment. She criticized existing federal policies, including the oil and gas production cap, Bill C-69, and the tanker ban, which she claims hinder investment in new projects. Smith stated, "You will not see companies sink billions of dollars into major new projects unless the federal government overturns or overhauls its Trudeau-era anti-resource development policies."

The Premier expressed optimism that her concerns are being acknowledged by the federal government, particularly by Prime Minister Mark Carney. However, she stressed the urgency of preventing investment and revenue from leaving Canada. Alberta's government plans to invest $14 million in the technical design and application process for the proposed pipeline, aiming to prepare it for private sector involvement.

Smith emphasized the importance of engaging Indigenous communities in the project, stating that their participation is crucial. She aims to ensure that Indigenous groups are not only consulted but also included as co-owners of the pipeline, which would provide long-term benefits to First Nations.

The Alberta government is working with pipeline companies to develop a detailed plan for federal approval by spring. Smith hopes to see the pipeline project included in the next list of nation-building initiatives announced before the Grey Cup in November. She concluded by reiterating Alberta's readiness to support global energy security while fostering lasting prosperity for Canadians.

"The question is, will the rest of Canada?" Smith asked, highlighting the need for national collaboration on this initiative.