Cold Lake First Nations seeking judicial review of Pacific Link pipeline designation

The Cold Lake First Nations has initiated a judicial review process at the Federal Court, disputing the Canadian government's decision to designate the Pacific Link pipeline as a project of national interest. Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith declared last week that the pipeline, extending from Alberta to British Columbia, would undergo expedited reviews and consultations within a year, enabling construction to commence in September.

Cold Lake First Nations Chief Kelsey Jacko had previously informed The Canadian Press that his community was excluded from the pipeline designation consultations, even though they are situated in the oilsands region. Furthermore, the Assembly of First Nations has raised concerns about several "red flags" in the pipeline's national interest designation, alleging that the federal government is predetermined to approve projects without conducting meaningful consultations.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has assured that his major projects agenda will not compromise Canada's commitments under the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.