Eby, coastal First Nations call on Ottawa to maintain oil tanker ban

British Columbia Premier David Eby and coastal First Nations leaders signed a declaration urging the federal government to uphold the oil tanker ban off the province's north coast. Eby emphasized that an oil spill could destroy billions of dollars in economic activity, with no available technology for cleanup. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has pushed for the repeal of this ban as part of her proposal for an oil pipeline to the B. C. coast.

Coastal First Nations leaders, including Chief Marilyn Slett, argue that the ban is essential for maintaining ecological health and economic strength, calling it "foundational. " Jason Alsop from the Haida Nation stated there is "absolutely no support for pipelines" or oil tankers around Haida Gwaii. The declaration warns that repealing the ban could risk significant job losses and billions in investments while causing irreversible ecological damage. It calls on the federal government to stand firm in its commitment to the ban as a national responsibility. The declaration is signed by multiple influential leaders, reflecting a unified stance on protecting the region's environment and economy.