Smith and Ford Push Pipeline Expansion to East Coast

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Ontario Premier Doug Ford have proposed the Northern Shield Energy Corridor, a pipeline project that would transport 500,000 barrels of crude oil per day from Alberta to Ontario.

The Northern Shield Energy Corridor has sparked interest in extending it further east to connect with markets in Europe and beyond. New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt has expressed support for pipelines, stating 'We're really interested in getting that kind of infrastructure from coast-to-coast-to-coast.'

The previous Energy East project was abandoned in 2017 due to widespread opposition in Quebec, but new Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette has indicated a willingness to reconsider the province's position on energy issues.

To meet the federal government's definition of a nation-building project, five requirements must be met. The Northern Shield Energy Corridor would need to be 'a high priority for Indigenous leaders,' with meaningful consultation with First Nations required for any pipeline extension to Saint John, N.B.