BC Premier David Eby and coastal First Nations signed a declaration urging Ottawa to keep the North Coast oil tanker ban, warning that repeal would “cheat” BC’s economy out of thousands of jobs and “billions of dollars” in investment while risking irreversible ecological damage.
Eby argued that a single spill could wipe out billions of dollars in coastal economic activity and said there is no technology available to clean it up. The declaration asks the federal government to stand firm and treat protection of the North Coast as a national responsibility and a measurable investment in Canada’s marine environment and future prosperity. 
Coastal leaders framed the ban as both environmental and economic policy. Chief Marilyn Slett, president of the Coastal First Nations, said the moratorium reflects roughly 50 years of coastal advocacy and is “foundational” to a healthy coast and strong economy. Haida Nation president Jason Alsop said there is “absolutely no support for pipelines” to the coast or for oil tankers around Haida Gwaii. 
Signatories to the declaration include Eby, Slett, Alsop, Lax Kw’alaams Mayor Garry Reece, Paula Amos of Indigenous Tourism BC, and hereditary elder Clarence Innis.
The push comes as Alberta Premier Danielle Smith continues to call for the tanker ban to be repealed as part of her government’s proposal to build a pipeline to the BC coast.
Information for this briefing was found via BOE and the sources mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to this organization. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.
