The British Columbia government has stated it is not involved in any discussions regarding a proposed pipeline to the province's north coast. Premier David Eby expressed his surprise at learning about the rumored negotiations through a news article. He emphasized that First Nations in the area have not been consulted by the federal government regarding this matter.

In a statement, Eby highlighted his preference for focusing on existing projects, such as the Ksi Lisims LNG terminal and the North Coast hydro transmission line, which are already on Prime Minister Mark Carney’s major projects list. He stated, "Real jobs and prosperity are put at risk from this extremely early stage and unfunded proposal of a heavy oil pipeline. That’s something that B.C. and Canada cannot afford at this time."

Haida President Gaagwiis Jason Alsop echoed Eby’s concerns, noting that there has been no consultation with coastal First Nations about the potential pipeline. He expressed hope that the federal government would maintain the existing tanker ban, which the Coastal First Nations and the province have requested. "In reality, it’s not a feasible project. It’s a non-starter. And it is not something that’s again, supported by either the Coastal First Nations or by the British Columbia government," Alsop said.

Reports surfaced that Ottawa is nearing a deal with Alberta on a new energy accord, which may include support for a pipeline from the oilsands near Fort McMurray to B.C.’s north coast. This route is similar to that of the Northern Gateway project, which was canceled in 2016 due to significant opposition from First Nations over potential oil spills in B.C. waters. Following this, a ban on oil tankers along B.C.’s northern coast was implemented by former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Discussions between Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith have been ongoing since last spring’s federal election. They are exploring a potential “grand bargain” that would allow for a new heavy oil pipeline in exchange for investments in decarbonizing the oilsands through carbon capture technology.

Liberal MP Will Greaves stated that he and his colleagues have received limited information about the pipeline negotiations, emphasizing that both B.C. and local First Nations must be on board and that any project must align with Canada’s climate goals. Conservative MP Ellis Ross, who previously served as a councillor for the Haisla Nation, noted that while he supports an oil pipeline, there is currently no proponent or official project description.

Smith has established an advisory council comprising pipeline operators Enbridge, Trans Mountain, and South Bow Corp. to design a project and submit it to Ottawa’s Major Projects Office. Alberta aims to have the project designed and permitted before transferring it to the private sector.

Richard Masson, an executive fellow at the University of Calgary’s school of public policy, expressed skepticism about the feasibility of the pipeline project. He stated, "There’s the idea about what would it cost after Trans Mountain cost $34 billion; there’s probably no private sector companies who are able to take on that kind of risk without a lot of government backing."

B.C. Energy Minister Adrian Dix indicated a preference for collaborating with Alberta on enhancing existing infrastructure rather than pursuing a new pipeline project without a proponent. He suggested focusing on dredging the Burrard Inlet and increasing the capacity of the current publicly owned pipeline.

B.C. Conservative Leader John Rustad mentioned that he has discussed the potential pipeline with Smith and Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe. He criticized Eby’s comments about the risks to First Nations support for major projects, labeling them as “fearmongering.” Rustad asserted, "They can drive up costs. They can create delays. They can do all kinds of really nasty things, which is what this government seems to want to always do when it comes to prosperity. But they cannot block it."

Green Leader Emily Lowan challenged Eby’s credibility in opposing the pipeline, pointing out his support for fast-tracking LNG projects. She warned that even if the pipeline project proceeds, it could take a decade to complete, potentially leaving no market for it by the time it is finished. "I think it’s clear to say that B.C. would shoulder the environmental economic risk while the Alberta and federal governments get to call it a deal," Lowan said.

Jeff Ferrier, a founding partner at Framepoint Public Affairs, remarked that the discussions surrounding the pipeline appear to be more about political positioning than concrete plans. He noted that First Nations have been actively scrutinizing LNG and mining projects, only to be confronted with unexpected discussions about a pipeline. "Out of the blue, someone drops this flaming bag of pipeline stuff on your front porch," Ferrier said.