Federal Energy Minister Tim Hodgson has issued an apology to the Coastal First Nations for comments he made regarding a proposed meeting about a potential bitumen pipeline to the northern British Columbia coast. The group, an alliance of nine First Nations, had expressed concerns over the short notice of the meeting.
Hodgson initially suggested a virtual meeting via Zoom to discuss the project, following a recent agreement between the federal and Alberta governments aimed at advancing the pipeline. “It’s called Zoom… I think that’s what we’re using, David,” he remarked during a Thursday interview, drawing criticism for being dismissive of the group’s concerns.
About 24 hours later, Hodgson posted on social media: “My comments last night about a virtual meeting with Coastal First Nations were a poor choice of words, which I regret. I have reached out to them directly to apologize and look forward to an in-person meeting at their convenience.”
Marilyn Slett, president of the Coastal First Nations, called Hodgson’s initial remarks “deeply disrespectful” and said they revealed a lack of understanding of the group’s communities. She emphasized that the Coastal First Nations have consistently collaborated with federal and provincial governments on environmental initiatives, such as protecting the Great Bear Rainforest and surrounding waters. These projects have generated permanent jobs and contributed significantly to Canada’s economy.
Slett added that the continuation of such initiatives relies on respectful dialogue and productive government relationships, stating: “We expect better from this government moving forward.”
The apology comes amid broader debates over pipeline development and climate policy following former Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault’s resignation. Hodgson defended the Alberta energy agreement, noting that it includes climate-focused measures like the industrial carbon tax, while also stressing that no pipeline currently exists.
The incident highlights the importance of careful communication with Indigenous communities, particularly on projects that have major environmental and economic impacts.
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