Two First Nations withdraw legal challenges to Ksi Lisims LNG project
The Metlakatla First Nation and Lax Kw'alaams Band have withdrawn federal court challenges after signing benefit agreements with the project's developer. The $10-billion facility on Pearse Island still faces other legal and political hurdles.
thenarwhal.caHouston-based Western LNG announced the agreements Tuesday with the Metlakatla First Nation, Lax Kw'alaams Band and Gitxaala Nation. The Metlakatla and Lax Kw'alaams had filed judicial review applications last fall alleging that federal regulators ignored their concerns about environmental impacts from the $10-billion plant and export terminal planned for Pearse Island.
The Lax Kw'alaams agreement includes procurement opportunities and states that the band has withdrawn its court challenge. A spokeswoman for Western LNG confirmed that the Metlakatla First Nation has also withdrawn its lawsuit.
Project agreements and pipeline updates Western LNG also announced updated or new agreements covering the Prince Rupert Gas Transmission pipeline that would supply the Ksi Lisims facility. The project has tentative supply deals with German utilities and aims for a final investment decision this year.
The Metlakatla agreement includes climate initiatives and business opportunities. Metlakatla Chief Councillor Robert Nelson said the deal reflects the importance of working together to create opportunities that benefit both members and the broader northwest region.
Davis Thames, head of Western LNG, said advancing agreements with Indigenous Nations helps build prosperity for communities in northwest British Columbia. Eva Clayton, president of the Nisga'a Nation, said the partners are pleased to see the vision materializing.
Remaining legal challenges The project continues to face political and legal challenges from groups concerned about environmental impacts of increased gas production and shipping. A Gitxsan Nation hereditary chief is challenging the British Columbia government's decision to allow a pipeline route through what he describes as pristine wilderness.
Two British Columbia Supreme Court petitions contest the provincial government's 2024 decision to deem the Prince Rupert Gas Transmission pipeline substantially started, which removed the requirement for a new environmental assessment. The pipeline received initial authorization in 2014 with a construction deadline later extended to 2024.
