**Alberta Premier Smith Optimistic About Pipeline Project Amid Opposition** Alberta Premier Danielle Smith expressed optimism on Tuesday regarding the future of her government’s proposed pipeline through northern British Columbia. She hopes to have positive news about the project by next month, despite ongoing resistance from British Columbia's Premier David Eby and local First Nations. Smith spoke to reporters in Ottawa after meeting with the Chamber of Commerce of Metropolitan Montreal and Prime Minister Mark Carney. She responded to Eby’s recent social media comments, where he labeled the proposed pipeline as “non-existent” and warned it could threaten billions of dollars to British Columbia’s economy, as well as the integrity of its northern coastline and the Great Bear Rainforest. In her remarks, Smith criticized Eby, calling him “a parochial premier” and described his comments as “un-Canadian” and potentially unconstitutional. She stated, “I would hope that Prime Minister Mark Carney would realize it’s his obligation to make sure that these kinds of projects get built.” Smith emphasized the long-term economic benefits of the pipeline, saying, “This is a very high value long-term return that all it takes is the prime minister to say ‘yes’ and so I’m hopeful that we’ll be able to get to that.” The premier also addressed the opposition from B.C.’s Coastal First Nations, who have pledged to fight against the pipeline. A statement from the group criticized Smith’s focus on oil pipelines and tankers, arguing that it poses risks to the environment and undermines support for more sustainable economic projects. Smith highlighted the presence of Indigenous supporters during her announcement of the pipeline project last week. She acknowledged the lack of consensus among First Nations and stressed the importance of proper consultation. “We believe that the only way this will get built is with significant Indigenous ownership, and we have the ability to help underwrite that,” she said. In 2016, a federal court ruled that the previous Conservative government had not adequately consulted First Nations regarding a similar pipeline project. Following her meeting with Carney, Smith expressed hope that the proposed pipeline could be included in Ottawa’s next round of fast-tracked major projects, which the prime minister plans to announce before the Nov. 16 Grey Cup in Winnipeg. “He’s demonstrated that if something isn’t working, that he’s prepared to repeal or modify,” Smith noted, while adding that she did not want to speculate on any potential agreements. Smith is scheduled to meet with Ontario Premier Doug Ford on Wednesday before returning to Alberta, where the provincial legislature will begin a new session on Oct. 23.