Indigenous groups remain split on Alberta’s pipeline pact with feds

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has reaffirmed her commitment to challenge Ottawa despite a recent agreement that eases regulatory barriers for a pipeline project from Alberta to the West Coast. This deal, signed earlier this week, aims to facilitate the transport of bitumen, potentially increasing export capacity significantly.

Investigators are currently examining the scene of a train derailment involving CPKC near Cranbrook, B.C., where approximately 12 cars, including propane tankers, have left the tracks. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported following the incident.

The Alberta government has reached a deal with Ottawa that includes a commitment to potentially adjust the Oil Tanker Moratorium Act, which currently restricts the transport of oil by tanker along British Columbia's coast. This agreement aims to facilitate the export of bitumen from Alberta to the West Coast, amid ongoing discussions about a pipeline project to British Columbia's North Coast.

At the recent United Conservative Party (UCP) convention in Alberta, Premier Danielle Smith faced boos from delegates when she inquired about their confidence in Canada following the signing of a pipeline memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Ottawa. This reaction underscores the contentious nature of the agreement, which aims to advance a pipeline project from Alberta to the Pacific coast.

Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree has expressed significant concern over the rising cases of extortion in British Columbia, emphasizing the urgent need for action. However, he has stated that he cannot disclose the identities of five individuals who were deported due to privacy issues related to these cases.

The Canadian Prime Minister's recent oil deal with Alberta has faced significant backlash, particularly from First Nations groups who have threatened to oppose the project, deeming it unfeasible. This deal follows the Haida nation's landmark victory for land recognition, which underscores the ongoing struggles of Indigenous communities in asserting their rights over traditional territories.

Federal Energy Minister Tim Hodgson stated that speculation regarding adjustments to British Columbia's tanker ban is premature, emphasizing that discussions are ongoing and no conclusions should be drawn yet. He made these remarks in an interview with The Canadian Press.

Two additional grizzly bears have been captured on the central coast of British Columbia as conservation officers continue their search for the bear responsible for an attack on a group of schoolchildren and teachers. The incident, which occurred on November 20, 2025, resulted in injuries to eleven individuals, with two critically hurt. Authorities are investigating the captured bears to determine any connection to the attack.