The Blueberry River First Nations has granted new disturbance cap exemption permits to the oil and gas company Petronas, as part of six development permits tied to its North Montney operation.
The decision aligns with the 2023 Implementation Agreement, aiming to balance economic development with the protection of Treaty rights, according to the band.
However, two other permits were rejected under the First Nation’s strict assessment policy due to concerns raised by Blueberry trapline holders. The Blueberry River First Nation also continues to challenge the Gundy Complex Plan, criticizing its removal of protections in claim areas without proper approval.
This plan was part of the 2023 agreement between the Nation and the province, which had been approved by former Chief Judy Desjarlais before her ousting last year. Desjarlais' removal followed an investigation into granting five permit approvals to the same company without consultation with the council, among other alleged issues.
The Nation has remained actively involved in Northeast British Columbia’s fast-tracked oil and gas development. Between January 2023 and 2024, over 1,200 oil and gas applications in claim areas were reviewed, with only 14 being opposed.
Blueberry says the latest round of permit approvals reflects the Nation’s efforts to balance economic progress while upholding their commitments to environmental protection and Treaty rights.