Mackenzie pipeline doesn’t need total aboriginal backing

Gary Park

The success of a proposed Mackenzie Valley pipeline does not depend on the consent of all aboriginal groups, says Northwest Territories cabinet minister Jake Ootes.

Speaking at the Far North Oil & Gas conference in Calgary, he said the Deh Cho First Nations, which has refused to sign a memorandum of understanding setting the stage for one-third native ownership of a C$3 billion line, will not derail a process that he expects will result in a decision later this year to proceed with Mackenzie Delta gas development and pipeline construction.

He said Northwest Territories Premier Stephen Kakfwi spoke with the Deh Cho leaders last week and will meet again later this month.

Ootes said Kakfwi will provide an assurance that Deh Cho land claims concerns will be dealt with before completion of the pipeline and will urge the community to join the Aboriginal Pipeline Group in an agreement with the Mackenzie Delta gas producers. He said a pipeline pact would mean huge economic benefits for a poverty-stricken region.

“There's always concern on our part that the needs of the Deh Cho are met and we are working towards that end,” he said.