By Cheryl Jahn

First Nations Speak Out In Favour Of Pipeline

Jan 23, 2019 | 2:42 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – The Chief Counsellor for the Haisla and the chiefs of 20 different First Nations in support of LNG Canada and Coastal Gas Link held a media event at the Natural Resources Forum this morning.

She outlined the opportunities that have and will accrue to the 20 First nations that have signed agreements on the projects. And Crystal Smith had some harsh words for the BC Union of Indian Chiefs for taking sides on the Wet’suwet’en issue rather than applaud the due diligence done by the 20 First Nations.

“Given the large First Nations support for the Coast Gas link, I am disappointed that the Union BC Indian Chiefs is choosing to stoke the fire of conflict regarding the Wet’suwet’en issue, rather than stand in support of 20 Nations which have signed agreements for the natural gas pipeline,” says Smith. “In fact, whether it’s the UBCIC, the Assembly of First Nations or the First Nations Summit, these groups seem content to rush to offer their perspective on what is happening within the Wet’suwet’en but have remained silent on the First Nations that are benefiting in real terms of these projects.”

She says there is an opportunity to build her community and others with those projects, saying she “tired of managing poverty.”