Malahat LNG faces First Nations opposition

WSANEC First Nations located on the Saanich Peninsula have jointly voiced their opposition to the Malahat LNG project proposed by Steelhead LNG and Malahat First Nation.

Chiefs of the WSANEC First Nations (Pauquachin, Tsartlip, Tsawout, Tseycum) said in a joint statement earlier this week that NEB granted an export licence without either notifying the First Nations or seeking consent.

It was noted that any further permits or authorizations by the government of British Columbia, without the consent of the WSANEC First Nations, would put any LNG project at risk of cancellation.

The Saanich Peninsula First Nations stressed that they are opposed to the proposed floating liquefied natural gas terminal, the proposed sub-sea gas pipeline or the proposed shipping activity in the Saanich Inlet. They further seek cessation of any activity on the territory.

In August last year, Steelhead LNG and Malahat First Nation signed the deal to develop the Malahat LNG, that would include floating liquefaction facilities with up to 6 mtpa capacity moored to the shoreline and supporting land-based facilities.

The project would be situated on the shoreline of Malahat Nation-owned land, formerly known as Bamberton, approximately 25 kilometers south of Duncan on Vancouver Island.

Feed gas would be delivered from northeastern British Columbia and Alberta via a combination of existing and new pipelines. Steelhead LNG is currently assessing pipeline route options to deliver the required natural gas to the facility, according to the company’s website.

LNG World News Staff