Cold Lake First Nations (CLFN) acknowledges the federal government’s announcement placing the Pathways+ Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage project on the “Fast Track” list of the One Canadian Economy Act. This $16.5-billion initiative proposes facilities, pipelines, and a waste storage hub beneath our territory.
While CLFN is not opposed to development, we have significant concerns about the lack of meaningful consultation and the potential risks to our lands, waters, and Treaty rights. In July, the Prime Minister committed to direct consultation with CLFN and our Treaty 6 neighbours before any decisions were made on Pathways+. Despite repeated outreach, that promise has not been fulfilled.
Our Key Concerns
-
The project is being advanced through provincial processes that fail to meaningfully include First Nations.
-
Members of CLFN have raised risks related to CO₂ pipeline leaks, seismic events, lack of transparency about storage locations, and broader environmental impacts.
-
Industry continues to seek piecemeal approvals and billions in taxpayer subsidies without including affected Nations at the decision-making table.
Our Calls to Action
-
Full inclusion of CLFN and Treaty 6 neighbours from the outset—not as an afterthought.
-
Designation of the project under the Impact Assessment Act (IAA) to ensure cumulative impacts, Treaty rights, and environmental risks are assessed holistically.
-
Proper risk management and guaranteed benefits for our Nation, ensuring our people share in the opportunities of development, not just the burdens.
Moving Forward
Resource development must be done the right way—with transparency, accountability, and full respect for Treaty rights. CLFN will continue to advocate strongly for proper accommodation, fair agreements, and a future where our Nation benefits from, rather than bears the costs of, major projects.
Read the full media release here: Media Release -Cold Lake First Nations Responds to Federal Announcement on Major Projects List