LNG pipeline deals with B.C. nets First Nation millions of dollars

VICTORIA – Millions of dollars are expected to flow to a First Nation in British Columbia’s northwest as a result of two new deals tied to proposed liquefied-natural-gas pipelines.

The Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation says it has signed benefits deals with the Moricetown Band.

One deal is tied to TransCanada’s proposed Coastal GasLink pipeline and will give the First Nation located between Smithers and New Hazelton $6 million as project milestones are reached.

Moricetown is also the 16th and final band to sign onto the First Nations Limited Partnership and will share in $32 million in benefits once construction begins on the proposed Pacific Trail Pipeline.

The ministry says the Moricetown Band will receive a share of $10 million in benefits tied to each project, as well.

Pipeline benefits agreements are negotiated between First Nations and the provincial government and are separate from deals signed between aboriginals and project proponents