A recent survey conducted by the Angus Reid Institute reveals that a majority of Canadians, including residents of British Columbia, are in favor of a proposed pipeline connecting northern Alberta to B.C. However, there is less agreement on expediting the project.
The survey indicates that 59% of Canadians support or strongly support the pipeline, with the highest support coming from Albertans at 78%. Despite British Columbia Premier David Eby’s opposition to the pipeline, 56% of British Columbians support the idea.
The poll results coincide with a dispute between Eby and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith concerning Smith’s recent proposal for a new bitumen pipeline to B.C.’s northern coast. While Eby has expressed concerns about Alberta being the sole proponent and potential impacts on oil tanker restrictions in B.C., Smith has criticized Eby’s rejection of the proposal as “un-Canadian” and “unconstitutional.”
According to the survey, 55% of Canadians support fast-tracking the pipeline project. Jon Roe, a research associate with the Angus Reid Institute, emphasized that while Canadians support the project, they also want to ensure environmental protections and Indigenous consultations are upheld as the project progresses.
The survey also found that 46% of Canadians, including 52% of British Columbians, believe that any province where a pipeline is constructed should have veto rights unless specific conditions are met.
Reflecting on recent political shifts, Richard Masson, an executive fellow at the University of Calgary, suggested that Canadians are reevaluating priorities in light of changing global dynamics, particularly since the tenure of former U.S. President Donald Trump. The survey showed that 57% of Canadians now prioritize economic growth over environmental protection, a shift from previous sentiments.
Regarding the federal government’s oil tanker ban, nearly half of Canadians either want the ban repealed or waived for the northern B.C. pipeline project. In B.C., 44% lean towards allowing tanker traffic on the northern coast. Energy Minister Tim Hodgson dismissed questions about repealing the tanker ban, emphasizing the importance of project approval from the B.C. government and Indigenous communities.
Public sentiment towards the pipeline may influence the B.C. premier’s decision-making, as pipelines often become symbolic and divisive political issues. Masson stressed the need for a comprehensive understanding of the risks and benefits associated with pipeline development.
