OTTAWA - The Green Party of Canada is deeply concerned by the recent deal struck between the City of Burnaby and Trans Mountain, which effectively silences the city’s public criticism of the controversial government owned Trans Mountain Expansion (TMX) pipeline. Under the terms of a $20 million agreement, Burnaby has agreed to cease "negative public communications" about Trans Mountain, raising serious ethical and democratic concerns.
“This type of agreement should not be legal in Canada,” said Elizabeth May, Leader of the Green Party. “Our governments, at all levels, must have the ability to openly scrutinize and hold companies accountable for actions that threaten public safety and the environment. The City of Burnaby has a responsibility to protect its citizens, and it should never be coerced into silence. Since TMX is a crown corporation, this is public money shutting down free speech. ”
The deal, finalized without public fanfare and posted quietly on Burnaby’s municipal website, includes provisions for $20.1 million to be allocated towards emergency planning and safety enhancements related to Trans Mountain’s operations. However, the agreement also prohibits the City of Burnaby from making any "negative public communications" about Trans Mountain, regardless of whether they are factual or based on opinion.
The timing of this agreement is especially troubling, given that just weeks ago, Burnaby released a report highlighting the catastrophic risks posed by a potential incident at the Burnaby Mountain tank farm or marine export terminal. The city has been a long-standing opponent of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion, frequently raising concerns about public safety, environmental risks, and the violation of Indigenous rights.
“Silencing a municipality’s voice on such a critical issue is undemocratic and dangerous. This agreement prevents the City of Burnaby from fulfilling its duty to its residents, to openly communicate risks, and to advocate for public safety. It is unacceptable,” added Elizabeth May. “This is a blatant attempt by Trans Mountain to buy the city’s silence, and it undermines public trust in both local government and corporate transparency.”
The Green Party is calling for a thorough investigation into the legality of this agreement, which may violate constitutional or federal laws regarding transparency and public accountability. Municipalities have a fundamental responsibility to stand up for the public interest, and deals like this set a dangerous precedent for corporate influence in public policy.
“The public has a right to know when their safety is at risk, and no amount of corporate money should be able to buy silence or complicity from any government body,” Elizabeth May concluded. “We will continue to hold both Trans Mountain and all levels of government accountable for the protection of our communities, our environment, and our future.”
#####
For more information or to arrange an interview :
Fabrice Lachance Nové
Press secretary
514-463-0021