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Guilbeault Alberta Pipeline Deal triggered a major political shift in Ottawa on Thursday. Steven Guilbeault resigned from cabinet only hours after Prime Minister Mark Carney approved a controversial energy and pipeline agreement with Alberta. He will remain a Liberal MP for his Montreal riding, but he no longer supports the direction of the new government.
A Breaking Point After Months of Tension
Guilbeault said the government dismantled key climate policies he helped design. He pointed to the emissions reduction plan, the national adaptation strategy, and carbon-pricing tools as achievements now at risk. He stressed that the Alberta memorandum of understanding crossed his red line. He argued that the deal weakens climate ambition and strengthens fossil-fuel expansion at a critical moment.
Pipeline Concerns and Climate Retreat
The Guilbeault Alberta Pipeline Deal dispute grew after Carney agreed to consider conditions for a potential new pipeline to British Columbia’s northwest coast. The MoU also exempts Alberta from federal Clean Electricity Regulations. Guilbeault called the exemption a “serious mistake” and warned that it undermines national efforts to cut emissions.
He said the plan to advance carbon capture through the Pathways Alliance does not compensate for expanded oil infrastructure.
Private Talks Failed to Close the Rift
A senior official said Carney and Guilbeault held an “honest and candid” discussion about the MoU earlier this week. The conversation did not change Guilbeault’s position.
Despite internal pressure, the former minister decided he could not defend the agreement as part of cabinet.
Carney Responds but Sticks to His Strategy
Carney thanked Guilbeault for his service but noted that climate progress requires more than bans and regulations. He argued that Canada must align economic and regional interests to maintain national unity.
He said Guilbeault will continue to contribute as a Liberal MP, even though their approaches differ.
Quebec Politics and Climate Identity
Guilbeault remains a key figure for the Liberals in Quebec. He defended carbon pricing for years and supported Carney’s leadership bid even after Carney scrapped the consumer carbon tax. In his resignation statement, Guilbeault said he entered politics to fight climate change and still holds that commitment.
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Strong Opposition to Alberta Agreement
He criticised several MoU elements, including potential removal of the oil-tanker ban and inadequate consultation with British Columbia and First Nations. He warned that a pipeline to the West Coast “would cause major environmental damage” and push Canada away from emissions-reduction goals.
Political Fallout Begins
Some Liberals privately believe the pipeline will never be built due to regulatory, financial, and Indigenous-rights challenges. However, Guilbeault’s departure sends a sharp signal. Green Party Leader Elizabeth May said his resignation “destroys any hope” that Carney will deliver credible climate policy.
