The Chief of the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation (ACFN) has strongly criticized the $50,000 penalty imposed on Imperial Oil for seepages at the Kearl oil sands project.
In a statement released on Tuesday, ACFN Chief Allan Adam expressed his disappointment with the penalty, calling it “a slap on the wrist” for a company that has caused significant harm to the environment and the community.
The seepages, which occurred in 2013 and 2015, released over 1.5 million liters of bitumen and other contaminants into the surrounding area. This has had a devastating impact on the land, water, and wildlife, as well as the traditional way of life for the ACFN.
Chief Adam stated that the penalty does not reflect the true cost of the damage caused by Imperial Oil’s negligence. He also criticized the lack of consultation with the ACFN and other Indigenous communities in the decision-making process.
The ACFN has been vocal in their opposition to the Kearl project, citing concerns about the potential for environmental damage and the infringement on their treaty rights. They have also raised concerns about the lack of proper monitoring and enforcement by the government.
The Chief’s statement comes after the Alberta Energy Regulator (AER) announced the penalty on Monday, stating that it was the maximum amount allowed under the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act.
Imperial Oil has stated that they are committed to addressing the seepages and have taken steps to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. However, Chief Adam believes that the company should be held accountable for their actions and that the penalty is not enough to deter them from further harm.
The ACFN is calling for a more thorough investigation into the seepages and for stricter penalties to be imposed on companies that violate environmental regulations. They are also urging the government to work with Indigenous communities to develop more sustainable and responsible energy practices.
The AER has stated that they will continue to monitor the situation and take appropriate action if necessary. However, Chief Adam and the ACFN are calling for more meaningful and effective measures to protect the environment and the rights of Indigenous communities.
