Dabrusin Challenges Guilbeault’s Assertions on Climate Agreement with Alberta

Post by : Mina Rahman

Environment and Climate Change Minister Julie Dabrusin is countering Steven Guilbeault's assertion that the recent deal with Alberta undermines Canada's climate strategy.

Guilbeault stepped down from his cabinet position following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the federal government and Alberta, which may pave the way for a new oil and gas pipeline to the coastline of British Columbia. In his resignation, he voiced concerns regarding the suspension of the oil and gas emissions cap and the delay of clean electricity regulations, fearing they could impede Canada's climate objectives.

However, Dabrusin disagreed, asserting that the MOU does not abolish or diminish any existing programs. She clarified that the agreement allows provinces to demonstrate compliance with federal climate goals through their adaptive methods.

The MOU entails a temporary hold on clean electricity regulations in Alberta and a delay in the emissions cap while both governments negotiate a new carbon-pricing agreement. The deadline for finalizing the carbon pricing and methane regulation agreements is set for April 1, 2026.

Additionally, the MOU highlights Canada's commitment to involve Indigenous communities across both provinces, with input from the British Columbia government for discussions with First Nations.

Maureen Nyce, the elected chief councillor of the Haisla Nation in Northern British Columbia, expressed concerns regarding the pipeline's prospects, suggesting that reduced environmental protections—like the emissions cap and the Fisheries and Species at Risk Acts—would likely encounter substantial pushback from local communities. She also raised doubts about the project's financial viability by the intended construction period.

Adrian Dix, B.C.’s Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions, indicated that the potential pipeline remains shrouded in uncertainty, emphasizing that no formal proposal has been made and that the province's focus lies elsewhere economically.

As per the MOU, the aim is to develop a privately funded pipeline with Indigenous co-ownership, extending access to Asian markets. Paul Colborne, CEO of Surge Energy, anticipates that various companies will express interest in the venture, positing that the agreement creates an inviting climate for investment.

Alberta's Energy Minister Brian Jean remarked that securing support from the private sector is crucial, describing the agreement as a constructive instance of intergovernmental collaboration in Canada.