Federal Court of Appeal

Coldwater band applies to Supreme Court of Canada over Trans Mountain expansion

Coldwater band applies to Supreme Court of Canada over Trans Mountain expansion

A B.C. First Nation is applying to argue its case at the Supreme Court of Canada for the protection of its drinking water in relation to the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion. “This application is unlike any other proceeding concerning the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion Project,” states the Coldwater application, filed on Friday. “It is about ensuring that the sole source of drinking water within the Coldwater Indian Band’s reserve is protected.”

Trans Mountain pipeline in limbo as Federal Court of Appeal orders Canada fix ‘flawed’ project

Trans Mountain pipeline in limbo as Federal Court of Appeal orders Canada fix ‘flawed’ project

The Coldwater Indian Band, which asserts traditional territories in south-central B.C., said the pipeline route passes an aquifer that is the sole supply of drinking water for its main reserve “This is a major victory for my community,” said Coldwater Chief Lee Spahan. “Thankfully, the court has stepped in where Canada has failed to protect and respect our rights and our water.”