Repeal The Tanker Ban
Canada is an energy-rich country with the resources and expertise to supply markets around the world.
Yet federal law restricts the shipment of oil from British Columbia's northern coast, limiting our ability to reach Pacific markets and diversify our energy exports.
The Oil Tanker Moratorium Act, passed in 2019, prohibits large oil tankers carrying more than 12,500 metric tonnes of crude oil from stopping, loading, or unloading at ports along BC's North Coast.
This restriction limits Canada's ability to develop new export routes and sell our resources to customers around the world.
For too long, Canadian oil producers have relied heavily on the United States as their primary export market.
Access to Pacific markets would give Canadian producers more options, strengthen our position in international trade, and create opportunities for workers and businesses across Western Canada.
Canada needs more opportunities to trade with the world, not fewer.
A recent proposal from Calgary-based Strathcona Resources would transport up to 250,000 barrels of Canadian oil a day by rail to Prince Rupert for export across the Pacific.
But the tanker ban stands in the way of the project moving forward.
British Columbia's incoming Premier, Lorne Doerkson, has also expressed a desire to work with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Prime Minister Carney to advance resource development in both provinces.
Alberta and British Columbia have an opportunity to work together to strengthen the western Canadian economy.
Federal policy should not stand in the way of projects that could create jobs, expand trade, and bring Canadian resources to new markets.
Canada has some of the world's largest oil reserves, yet government restrictions continue to limit our ability to get those resources to international customers.
Instead of creating barriers to economic development, Ottawa should be helping Canadian businesses compete globally.
If you agree, please sign our petition calling on Prime Minister Mark Carney to Repeal The Tanker Ban.
Showing 1112 comments
I fully support repeal, with reasonable environmental safeguards and enforceable financial accountability. Every perspective deserves consideration; no single interest group should dictate outcomes for the country as a whole. Decisions with national consequences must consider the broader public interest.
Closing off an opportunity is also a decision, with consequences for jobs, public revenues and economic independence. Those consequences deserve the same scrutiny as the projects themselves.