Fort McKay and Suncor Sign MOU for Oil Sands Lease Development

Raymond Powder, Chief of Fort McKay First Nation, announces the signing of a MOU for developing oil sands lease.

Fort Mckay First Nation met with Suncor officials on Thursday morning to announce the signing of a memorandum of understanding for developing oil sands on reserve lands.

Chief of Fort McKay, Raymond Powder, stated that this agreement is the first of its kind in Canada between an oil sands company and an Indigenous company.

The signing is not only expected to bring economic growth and employment opportunities to Fort McKay and its members, but it also grants Fort McKay the influence over developments taking place on their traditional lands.

During the conference, Chief Powder emphasized the significance of safeguarding the nation’s land, water, and air. He stated that the people in their region are the most qualified to perform this task while still promoting economic growth and environmental protection. Chief Powder stated that Fort McKay has done it in the past, and they can continue to do it in the future.

Peter Zebedee, the Executive Vice President for Suncor’s Oil Sands, expressed that this development is a good example of Suncor’s journey to economic reconciliation and how it benefits Fort McKay First Nation.

Some First Nations peoples oppose the idea of oil sands developments due to concerns about potential negative impacts on lands, treaty rights, culture, waterways, and the environment.

Through this partnership, Fort McKay has the opportunity to govern oil sands activity on their land and fully participate in and benefit from responsible resource development.

Chief Powder tells CFWE that this development will help protect their land and water while promoting growth for generations to come.

During the confrence Fort McKay and Suncor announced that 2036 is the late day for this development after consultation with elders and community members began around 2020.