AFN chiefs unanimously call on Canada to withdraw its new Alberta pipeline deal, urging full respect for Indigenous rights and the northern B.C. tanker ban.
AFN Calls for Withdrawal of Federal-Alberta Pipeline Agreement
Rising Opposition at National Assembly
The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) delivered a united message on Tuesday in Ottawa, where chiefs from across Canada voted unanimously to demand the withdrawal of the federal–Alberta memorandum of understanding (MOU) on a proposed bitumen pipeline to Asian markets. The resolution emerged during the AFN’s annual December assembly, attended by hundreds of leaders from more than 630 First Nations.
Concerns Over Tanker Ban Changes
At the centre of the dispute is the deal’s contemplation of amending the federal moratorium on oil tanker traffic in northern British Columbia. Chiefs argued that the agreement undermines long-standing environmental protections and First Nations jurisdiction over coastal waters. Moving the resolution, Chief Donald Edgars of Old Massett Village Council said any pipeline to the B.C. coast is “a pipe dream,” stressing the need to uphold climate commitments and the U.N. Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
AFN Leadership Rejects Bypass of Indigenous Rights
AFN National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak sharply criticized the MOU, telling delegates it treated Indigenous rights as “eraseable” through federal-provincial agreements. She warned that national infrastructure cannot proceed without consent from rights holders, reaffirming the assembly’s position that major projects must honour free, prior, and informed consent.
Industry-Aligned Leaders Warn of Imbalance
Not all Indigenous representatives agreed with the speed and outcome of the vote. Stephen Buffalo, president and CEO of the Indian Resource Council, said the resolution advanced without sufficient consultation. Representing more than 150 First Nations involved in oil and gas development, he argued that the decision failed to reflect communities that favour economic participation in energy projects.
Prime Minister Confronted by Chiefs
Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed the assembly later in the day, promising that all future major projects would be pursued “in partnership” with First Nations. However, chiefs pressed him on ongoing crises, including land claims, natural resource governance, and the long-standing boil water advisories. Neskantaga First Nation Chief Gary Quisess called Carney’s remarks disappointing, noting his community has endured more than 30 years without safe drinking water.
Tense Exchange Marks Carney’s Visit
Carney’s appearance ended abruptly after several chiefs were cut off during the question period, prompting visible frustration in the room. It was his first official AFN assembly since winning a minority government in April, following earlier criticism during a July summit on the new Building Canada Act, which gives cabinet broad authority to expedite nationally significant projects.
Next Steps for the Pipeline Initiative
The contested pipeline MOU commits Canada and Alberta to early and “meaningful” consultation with Indigenous communities but does not reference consent—an omission repeatedly raised by B.C. First Nations. Carney said he intends to visit coastal nations in northern B.C. but did not commit to honouring the AFN’s call to withdraw the agreement or maintain the tanker ban.
Government Planning Further Engagement
Carney announced he will convene a joint First Ministers–First Nations meeting early next year, with the agenda set by Indigenous leaders. He also pledged to introduce federal clean drinking water legislation by spring 2026. Delegates are expected to hear directly from Canada’s major projects office on Wednesday, alongside debate on more than three dozen additional policy resolutions.
