QUESTION PERIOD — Privy Council Office
Canada-Alberta Memorandum of Understanding
November 27, 2025
Senator Moreau, my question is about the memorandum of understanding, or MOU, between the federal government and Alberta. First of all, it’s wonderful to see the renewed comity between the Province of Alberta and the federal government. The MOU talks about the leadership of the private sector on this project, with the government providing what is called political support. Can we take that to mean that the federal government will not put any federal money into the project and that it will be entirely led by the private sector?
The MOU was released a few minutes ago, Senator Woo. The Prime Minister has been clear that projects emerging from this MOU will only be built in consultation and partnership with Indigenous rights holders in Alberta. They’ll create unprecedented opportunities for Indigenous co-ownership, partnership and economic benefits.
However, between the MOU and the construction of anything, there are many things that have to be done. Alberta and Canada recognize their obligation to consult with and, where appropriate, accommodate Indigenous People. As far as investment is concerned, both governments expect that there will be private investment as well in such an important project.
Private investment, I hope, to the exclusion of federal government investment, because that’s what the implication of the MOU is.
You mentioned the importance of benefits and job creation for First Nations communities — that would be terrific — but the government has also said that no project can go ahead without the consent of First Nations rights holders. Would it be accurate to say that any proposed project will not go ahead unless there is the consent of the affected rights holders?
Yes. I can quote from the MOU itself:
Canada and Alberta are committed to respecting Aboriginal and Treaty rights, engaging in early, consistent, and meaningful consultation with Indigenous Peoples, in a manner that promotes reconciliation, and respects the rights and cultures of Indigenous Peoples while advancing economic opportunities through Indigenous ownership and partnerships.
