January 29,2026
RED FM News Desk
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Prime Minister Mark Carney say they are open to exploring alternative routes for a potential pipeline to transport Alberta oil to Asian markets, noting it does not necessarily need to end on B.C.’s northwest coast.
“Some of the alternatives are already emerging,” Smith told reporters in Ottawa on Thursday. She said several options are being considered, including expanding Enbridge’s main line and making better use of old Keystone infrastructure. “North, south, east, west, we’re willing to go in every direction,” she added.
Smith has clashed with B.C. Premier David Eby on the issue for months. In June, Eby opposed a new pipeline, citing the existing Trans Mountain Expansion Project, prompting Smith to say she would work to “convince” him. In November, Carney and Smith signed a memorandum of understanding outlining conditions for a new Pacific pipeline, including Alberta implementing an industrial carbon pricing agreement by April 2026 with a $130-per-tonne floor.
In exchange, the federal government agreed to suspend the oil and gas emissions cap, hold off on clean electricity regulations in Alberta, and, if necessary, provide exemptions to the federal tanker ban. Eby has opposed lifting the 2019 tanker ban, which restricts large oil tankers from docking on B.C.’s north coast.
“We are doing our work to put the project together by June, and we are hoping the federal government can move swiftly on a decision so we can focus on technical details,” Smith said Thursday. “I’m confident that once approved, private sector proponents will be ready to help build it.”
According to a CTV News report ,Eby responded that Smith is “committed to keeping B.C. updated on her progress,” and he looks forward to receiving those updates.
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