CANADA: Aboriginal Pipeline Group secures funding for Mackenzie gas pipeline

The Aboriginal Pipeline Group (APG), a consortium formed from First Nation communities, has succeeded in securing $70 million (Cdn.) for design work on the Mackenzie gas pipeline, with up to $300 million for equity if the line is built. The money is believed to come from TransCanada PipeLines, Ltd., though the company has not yet commented publicly. The proposed pipeline would cross land owned by many First Nation communities, making the APG’s involvement critical to the other oil companies involved. The APG believes its participation can provide a new model for development of aboriginal land, bringing benefits to aboriginal people without destroying local cultures or the environment.