Manitoba Premier Open to West-East Pipeline Proposal

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Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew expresses openness to a proposed pipeline connecting Alberta and Ontario, emphasizing the need for proper environmental and Indigenous consultations.

In Charlottetown, Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew addressed reporters on Wednesday, indicating a willingness to consider a proposed pipeline connecting the provinces of Alberta and Ontario. Kinew, during a meeting of premiers, remarked that such a project could bolster Canada's economy and noted that there are many workers in Manitoba eager to participate in its construction. "I love Alberta, I love Albertans, so (I’m) willing to entertain the idea," he stated.
The pipeline proposal, introduced earlier this month by Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Ontario Premier Doug Ford, envisions a 3,300-kilometer pipeline extending from Hardisty, Alberta, to the refineries located in Sarnia, Ontario. This pipeline would traverse Saskatchewan and Manitoba, notably avoiding any crossings into the United States.
Smith and Ford have outlined that the pipeline would be capable of transporting 500,000 barrels of crude oil daily, which they assert would lessen Canada's reliance on imported refined oil. However, as of now, there has been no private sector commitment to construct or operate the pipeline, with Ford suggesting that government funding might be necessary to bring the project to fruition.
Kinew’s office did not provide a direct response to inquiries regarding the pipeline when the proposal was first announced. Instead, they emphasized that significant infrastructure projects must be executed appropriately. This sentiment was reiterated by Kinew on Wednesday, who stated, "If it’s going to make Canada stronger, great, but of course we want to see things done in the right way. We want Indigenous governments onside. We want workers taken care of. We want the environmental concerns all looked after."
The Premier clarified that his comments do not signify a shift in his or his government's stance. Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe has previously expressed support for the initiative. An estimated cost and timeline for the pipeline are anticipated to be released by Ford's government by the year's end, following the completion of a feasibility study.
Ford has also mentioned the potential for the pipeline to include a branch that would connect to the Port of Churchill in northern Manitoba. Kinew acknowledged this possibility and remarked that a port extension could be perceived as a gesture to gain his support for the overall project. "Everyone’s throwing each other bones," Kinew noted, adding, "I think it’s an exciting time to be a Canadian — lots of economic development on the horizon."

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