Elizabeth Metis says they withdrew AER appeal on Cold Lake expansion after reaching an agreement

Elizabeth Metis Settlement gave a brief statement saying why they withdrew their appeal to the Alberta Energy Regulator on Imperial Oil’s Cold Lake Expansion project.

“Elizabeth Metis Settlement and Imperial have concluded an Agreement, under which the parties have agreed to a process to address any project-related concerns,” said EMS chairperson Irene Zimmer in an emailed statement.

“This agreement has addressed the Elizabeth Metis Settlements concerns as identified under Section 35 of the Constitution.

“In doing so, Elizabeth Metis Settlement has withdrawn its appeals, and wishes to thank our neighbours for their support including, Fishing Lake Metis Settlement, Kehewin Cree Nation and Buffalo Lake Metis Settlement.”

The AER announced on their website on Aug. 26 that the appeal hearing was cancelled.

Imperial Oil said last week they continue to evaluate their plans for the Cold Lake Expansion project and have not made a final decision on investment.

The project was billed as a $2-billion investment to expand operations in Imperial Oil’s Cold Lake site located 23 kilometres from the city.