British Columbia Premier Christy Clark has reached an agreement with Alberta Premier Alison Redford regarding a framework agreement on moving energy resources to new markets.
This agreement is a step toward two large pipeline proposals currently in the works in B.C.: Enbridge's Northern Gateway and the Kinder Morgan twinning project.
After officials worked through the night, according to a B.C. government press release, agreement was reached on all five conditions that had been set out by Clark before B.C. would agree to move forward on this issue.
The sticking point had been the fifth condition, related to B.C.'s right to negotiate with Alberta on appropriate economic benefits. The governments of both provinces have come to agreement that it is not the mandate of B.C. and Alberta to negotiate these benefits, and have agreed that Alberta's royalties are not up for negotiation. Instead of negotiating with Alberta, B.C. will explore negotiating with private industry for more money.
The first four criteria, related to environmental protection, marine safeguards and First Nations support, had already been agreed upon.
More information will be available after Premier Redford addresses the Vancouver Board of Trade this afternoon.
