Statement from NCC President Peter Coleman on Today's Memorandum of Understanding
November 27, 2025 – Today marks a cautiously optimistic step forward for Canada's resource sector with the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at advancing critical energy infrastructure. As President of the National Citizens Coalition (NCC), I welcome this development as a potential turning point, but we must temper our enthusiasm with a clear-eyed focus on delivering tangible results. The devil, as always, is in the details, and without firm deadlines and execution, this MOU risks becoming just another piece of paper.
While no specific date has been set for breaking ground, discussions point to 2029 as a realistic target, provided all preparatory steps are met. This timeline is not unreasonably protracted for a project of this magnitude. Massive undertakings like pipelines require meticulous planning: selecting port locations, mapping routes, establishing construction timetables, and securing contracts for essential materials such as steel from Canadian companies. These elements demand time to ensure efficiency and domestic economic benefits, and rushing them could lead to costly errors.
Premier Danielle Smith's comments underscore a vital truth: resource development and environmental sustainability can coexist. Canada has the opportunity to lead globally in responsible energy production. However, success hinges on removing or implementing only minor degrees of carbon pricing that will not wholly undermine the project's economic viability. Excessive burdens could deter investment and stall progress, so trade-offs must be balanced wisely to protect jobs and growth.
This MOU represents a stark departure from the Trudeau government's decade-long mantra of "no, no, no." For years, they dismissed the economic case for our oil, natural gas, and rare minerals, even as international suitors expressed interest. They would never have committed pen to paper on an agreement like this. Now, under new leadership, we're seeing concrete action that could unlock Canada's potential.
The NCC will hold all parties accountable to ensure this momentum translates into reality and we must vigilantly monitor the Liberals' red tape and carbon pricing to safeguard financial success. Additionally, we remind stakeholders that the Supreme Court has ruled pipelines fall under federal jurisdiction, preventing provinces like British Columbia from unilateral obstruction. That said, it's pragmatic to ensure BC benefits economically and to prioritize Indigenous partnerships, fostering broad support.
The economic stakes are immense. Projects of this scale generate substantial revenue for the federal government -- Trans Mountain alone has contributed over $2 billion, funds desperately needed to reduce deficits and bolster military capabilities. No other initiatives offer comparable job creation, economic growth, and prosperity for Canadians. To secure these outcomes, we have previously urged for Steven Guilbeault to resign, which is now confirmed. Next, Canadians demand the sidelining of Jonathan Wilkinson from key decisions. Their influence has too often prioritized radical environmentalism over balanced progress.
In a nod to moving beyond obstructionism, both Wilkinson and Guilbeault and his orange jumpsuit must be left behind in the Trudeau years.
In summary, these are positive strides toward reducing our reliance on discounted oil exports to the U.S., and we're signalling to our friends and allies that Canada may soon be open for business once again. But optimism must be matched by action. This cannot be another stunt, Canadians demand results.
The NCC will continue advocating for deadlines, accountability, and matters of affordability and prosperity that benefit all Canadians, not just the Liberals and their friends.
Peter Coleman
President, National Citizens Coalition
For additional comment: [email protected]
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