Energy Minister Tim Hodgson has dismissed inquiries about the potential repeal of the tanker ban in the northern waters of British Columbia by the Liberal government. Hodgson labeled these questions as “hypothetical” due to the absence of a formal pipeline proposal from Alberta for review. Speaking in Montreal on Friday, Hodgson responded to Alberta’s announcement of intentions to propose a new bitumen pipeline to the northern coast of B.C., a move that faced criticism from B.C. Premier David Eby.
Hodgson emphasized that if Alberta chooses to be a proponent and financially supports a pipeline project, they have the right to do so. He mentioned that the government would evaluate the proposal once it is presented for review, similar to other projects.
Alberta argued that the need for their involvement as the proponent stems from a lack of private industry investment due to existing federal regulations like the 2019 restrictions on oil tankers in B.C.’s northern waters. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith expressed concerns about the feasibility of building a pipeline to the northwest coast while the tanker ban remains in place.
B.C. Energy Minister Adrian Dix defended the tanker ban, highlighting its importance in safeguarding the province’s coastal areas critical to its economy. Dix emphasized the tangible progress of existing projects in contrast to hypothetical ventures, stressing the need for federal support.
Regarding Alberta’s pipeline proposal, Alex Pourbaix, the executive chair of Cenovus Energy and part of a supervisory panel for the application, disputed B.C.’s claims of a lack of business viability. Pourbaix underscored the global demand for oil and Canada’s role in meeting it, indicating that Alberta’s focus is on initiating the project and addressing regulatory obstacles with federal support.
Alberta’s proposal has faced criticism from B.C., with concerns raised about heavy government involvement and potential economic risks posed by challenging the tanker ban. The ongoing discussions between provinces and the federal government are expected to continue as Alberta plans to submit its application to the Major Projects Office in spring 2026.
