Premier Danielle Smith has signaled that a major pipeline agreement between Alberta and the federal government is imminent, urging Albertans to stay tuned for an announcement in the coming days.
Optimism High for Pipeline Deal
Speaking on Monday, Smith expressed strong confidence that a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Prime Minister Mark Carney is near completion. The deal would pave the way for a pipeline to transport Alberta oil to the west coast, a long-sought goal for the province.
“I’ve worked very hard with the prime minister on landing an MOU,” Smith said. “I hope we’re going to be able to announce very soon. We’re going to work together on building a pipeline to the west coast.”
Key Issues Addressed
Smith highlighted several factors that have brought the two sides closer together. She noted that both leaders recognized the need for shared urgency to quell uncertainty about the federal government’s commitment to major energy projects. The premier also raised concerns from the oilpatch about the industrial carbon tax, pointing out that other jurisdictions do not have such a tax.
“When we met, we both landed on the need for shared urgency,” Smith explained. “I think the prime minister wants to be able to quell any uncertainty about how committed his government is to these major projects.”
She also referenced U.S. President Donald Trump’s issuance of numerous pipeline permits, questioning why the American government can move faster to get Alberta oil to market than Canada’s.
Public Sentiment and Next Steps
Recent polling indicates that fewer than four in 10 Albertans believe a west coast pipeline will actually be built. However, Smith remains undeterred, describing the current phase as finalizing details and wording.
“Just a few more details and getting the wording going back and forth, and as soon as we have landed on a document we can sign, we’ll let you know,” she said.
When asked about Alberta’s relationship with Ottawa, Smith likened it to couples counseling rather than divorce. “It’s not time for a divorce,” she said. “As I told the prime minister, it’s more like couples counselling.”
The premier’s upbeat tone suggests that a breakthrough may be announced before the May long weekend, marking a significant step forward in Alberta’s push for greater market access.
