Canada: B.C. Govt Inks Deal with Haisla Nation on New LNG Terminal

The British Columbia government and the Haisla Nation announced a framework agreement that will spur the development of another natural gas export facility in the Northwest.

It’s a significant step toward B.C. government’s commitment to have three terminals and their connecting pipelines operating by 2020, creating more than 1,400 ongoing jobs and generating an estimated $600 billion in economic activity over 30 years.

The framework agreement provides the structure for a land purchase or lease that will allow the Haisla to partner with industry to develop LNG facility and marine export terminal on the west side of the Douglas Channel in the areas around Haisla Reserve #6.

Providing the Haisla Nation with a partnership role in the development of a terminal is also a key component of British Columbia’s commitment and efforts, outlined in the BC Jobs Plan, to work with First Nations to create jo bs, increase First Nations participation in the economy and enhance effectiveness and efficiency on consultation processes for job creators.

The Haisla Nation is supportive of advancing the LNG industry in British Columbia. This agreement has the potential to fast-track a major LNG facility in the Kitimat area.

The agreement also signals a closer working relationship between the Haisla and B.C. in and around the Kitimat and Douglas Channel area. It commits both parties to start work on land-use planning for areas around the Douglas Channel, which has tremendous potential as a marine port. This certainty will allow other development projects in the area to proceed.

Ida Chong, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation said: “Our government is working with First Nations like the Haisla to create new jobs and opportunities throughout British Columbia. This agreement builds on our strong partnership with the Haisla Nation, and it is the key to unlocking the vast potential of a whole new natural gas export industry in British Columbia which will provide long-term stability for families and communities.”

Ellis Ross, Chief Councillor of the Haisla Nation commented: “This agreement allows the Haisla to look at the land on the west side of the Douglas Channel in a different light. This gives the Haisla and associated projects the certainty needed for the LNG proposals and other projects coming forward for our territory. If we are able to do this, the Haisla people will benefit, as will all British Columbians and Canadians.”

“The Province of British Columbia continues to build on the foundation of the BC Jobs Plan to create jobs and support businesses. Today’s framework agreement is another step toward our goal of developing a liquefied natural gas industry which will create economic opportunities for our entire province,” said Rich Coleman, Minister of Energy, Mines and Natural Gas.

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LNG World News Staff, September 17, 2012; Image: gov.bc