British Columbia Premier David Eby has voiced strong opposition to a proposed northern oil pipeline, labeling it an "energy vampire" that could drain resources from federal, Indigenous, and provincial governments. This statement comes after Alberta and the federal government signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to advance the project. Eby described the pipeline proposal as a distraction that has already cost British Columbia an investment opportunity.

Eby, who referred to the project as "fictional," stated that the province would not pursue legal action against the pipeline, unlike its previous unsuccessful attempts to block the Trans Mountain Pipeline expansion. In contrast, Coastal First Nations President Marilyn Slett expressed a willingness to explore all legal avenues to prevent the pipeline's development. "We’re looking at the legal options. We’re looking at our communities. Our communities are mobilizing," Slett said during a news conference.

Slett emphasized that the project would not proceed, asserting that a tanker ban on the north coast is non-negotiable. She stated, "We will never tolerate any exemptions or carveouts, period." The MOU commits Canada and Alberta to collaborate on the pipeline, with Alberta as the proponent and the federal government potentially modifying the tanker ban if necessary.

Eby criticized Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe for discussing the pipeline with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith instead of addressing issues faced by the potash company Nutrien, which has opted to ship its product through Washington state, bypassing British Columbia. Eby expressed frustration over losing the Nutrien deal, stating, "It really pissed me off that we lost the Nutrien deal, because I think that was entirely avoidable."

Energy Minister Adrian Dix echoed Eby's sentiments, calling the pipeline a non-existent political exercise and urging a focus on "real projects" that create jobs. The MOU includes provisions for engaging with Indigenous Peoples in both provinces and offers opportunities for Indigenous co-ownership and economic benefits. However, Slett rejected the idea of co-owning a project that threatens their way of life, citing the risk of oil spills.

"The honour of the Crown means the federal government must consult with us on a nation-to-nation basis," Slett stated. "We will never consent to allowing oil tankers in our coastal waters."

Despite the opposition, Smith remains optimistic about the project, noting that the MOU recognizes the need to consult with Indigenous Peoples. She remarked that British Columbia has previously attempted to block projects without success, referencing the courts' affirmation that the decision is not solely B.C.'s.

B.C. Conservative Opposition Leader John Rustad supported the pipeline, calling it beneficial for Canada and British Columbia. However, Simon Fraser University political science professor Andy Hira expressed skepticism about the pipeline's future, labeling the MOU as "political theatre" aimed at garnering support in Alberta.

Jason Alsop, president of the Council of Haida Nation, also criticized the MOU, stating that Coastal First Nations will not allow oil tankers or the pipeline in their territory due to the risks involved. "The ocean is what looks after us, and we have a responsibility to uphold that," he said.

The situation remains tense as both sides prepare for potential conflicts over the proposed pipeline.