Smith Labels Eby’s Pipeline Criticism ‘Un-Canadian, Unconstitutional’
The ongoing debate over an oil pipeline proposal between Alberta and British Columbia (B.C.) has intensified following fierce comments from both provincial leaders. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and B.C. Premier David Eby are clashing over the viability and necessity of the pipeline project, which aims to connect Alberta oil to B.C.’s northern coast.
Smith Labels Eby’s Pipeline Criticism ‘Un-Canadian, Unconstitutional’
The exchange of words escalated earlier this week after Eby released a video labeling Smith’s proposed pipeline as “fictional” and “non-existent.” He argued that B.C. has more pressing infrastructure projects that should take priority under Ottawa’s infrastructure plan.
In response to Eby’s remarks, Smith held a press conference on October 7, 2025, on Parliament Hill. During this event, she asserted that Eby’s criticism is “un-Canadian and unconstitutional,” referencing the Supreme Court’s ruling that interprovincial pipelines fall under federal jurisdiction. Smith expressed her hope that Prime Minister Mark Carney acknowledges the federal government’s role in facilitating such projects.
Economic Impact of the Proposed Pipeline
Smith claimed that the new oil pipeline could generate up to $20 billion annually for the Canadian economy. Last month, during a visit to Edmonton, Carney discussed the first five projects that would be fast-tracked under the Building Canada Act, which aims to expedite the approval process for significant infrastructure ventures deemed in the national interest.
She emphasized that Alberta is actively working on a major oil pipeline application to be presented to Ottawa by May 2026. Although the project currently lacks a private-sector proponent, Alberta is collaborating with companies like Enbridge Inc., South Bow Corp., and Trans Mountain Corp. for technical insights.
Environmental Policies and Investment Concerns
Smith also urged the federal government to reconsider several environmental initiatives, including an emissions cap and the tanker ban along B.C.’s coast. She noted that the repeal of the federal fuel charge, often referred to as the carbon tax, and the postponement of the zero-emission vehicle mandate signal progress in reducing barriers to investment.
Eby countered these arguments at a Victoria news conference, stating that Alberta should prioritize maximizing the existing Trans Mountain pipeline’s capacity rather than pushing for new projects that may require taxpayer funding. He insisted on equal access to federal funding for B.C. projects, emphasizing that fairness is a quintessential Canadian value.
Call for Collaboration and Future Developments
Amidst this heated exchange, Eby called for federal support to maintain the current ban on oil tanker traffic off B.C.’s north coast. Smith aims to lift this ban, promoting new access to ports for Alberta oil.
John Rustad, the leader of B.C.’s official opposition, echoed Smith’s allegations of Eby’s “un-Canadian” stance, expressing confidence in ongoing discussions regarding the tanker ban.
Additionally, Northwest Territories leaders were in Ottawa advocating for federal backing for several major infrastructure projects, including the Arctic Economic and Security Corridor, which remains on track for future development.
As the rivalry continues, both premiers stress the importance of collaborating to ensure that the infrastructure needs of all provinces are acknowledged and met.
