Alberta and Ottawa are in formal negotiations to sign a relationship-reset accord, with Alberta aiming to finalize a memorandum of understanding, according to the premier’s office.
Both sides say the goal is a formal MOU that would mark a break from years of acrimony. The Alberta premier’s office has publicly set an ambitious target to “ink the deal” before Nov. 16.
A senior federal source has also confirmed that talks are underway to “iron out a deal” meant to reset the relationship.
The disputes have piled up over roughly a decade. Successive Alberta governments have blamed federal policies for poisoning relations, including amendments to impact assessment legislation, the ban on oil tankers along British Columbia’s northern coast, net-zero electricity regulations, draft regulations for an oil and gas emissions cap, and clean electricity rules.
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That Climate Competitiveness Strategy reaffirmed policies that have angered Alberta, including enhanced methane regulations and clean electricity rules. It did not scrap the proposed oil and gas emissions cap, but it set conditions that, if implemented, could make a cap unnecessary. Those conditions include deploying carbon capture technology at scale and strengthening the industrial carbon pricing system that governs large emitters.
Smith withheld judgment pending the outcome of negotiations. A spokesperson pointed to a prior line from the premier that Alberta is working toward an agreement with Ottawa that includes the removal, carve-out, or overhaul of federal climate policies the province has opposed.
Alberta has also indicated it is moving forward as the proponent of a bitumen pipeline to British Columbia’s northern coast and plans to apply through the federal Major Projects Office as part of that process.
Information for this story was found via CBC and the sources mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to the organizations discussed. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.
One Response
I am a 7 decade British Columbian resident. I have never voted Liberal, but do appreciate Mark Carney and think he may be the best Prime minister in my lifetime. I admire Danielle Smith and her relentless struggle to enforce provincial rights for Alberta. I only wish we had such a leader in BC.
There are two perceptions of Canada; one of pragmatism recognizing where Canada’s economic strengths and weaknesses are, and one of idealism of Canada’s position in the world, and ability to resist global climate change in a world of behemoths like China, India, and the US. Carney has to do his best to keep both in line. He has my full support
I think this is a mending that must take place for the benefit of all Canadians