Piikani Nation refutes Northback claim of support for Grassy Mountain scheme
First Nation Council contradicts Australian promoter’s falsehood that Piikani support coal mine. Says it does not trust Northback science.
“Piikani Nation has not made any decisions regarding support for any future activities at the Grassy Mountain site or on Piikani Territory.”
The Big Lie:
“The Piikani First Nation, whose reserve is located 50 km from Northback’s project, are working with us on environmental management to protect the land, water, wildlife, and Piikani’s traditional way of life,” says (Northback CEO Mike) Young.
— Northback news release, May 23, 2024
The Big Truth:
“As you may be aware, Northback Holdings Corp. has submitted a revised proposal for the Grassy Mountain Project (Revised Project) to the Alberta Energy Regulator (AER). We understand that the Revised Project addresses many of the issues raised by the AER in its prior decision to reject the original Project. We will provide information about the Revised Project as it becomes available.
“The Revised Project has to go through the proper regulatory process, and Northback will be required to undertake further consultation with Piikani Nation. Piikani Nation intends to fully participate in the regulatory process to ensure that our rights are protected and our voices are heard.
“Piikani Nation has not made any decisions regarding support for any future activities at the Grassy Mountain site or on Piikani Territory.
“We have advised Northback many times that Piikani Nation will carefully review any applications to the AER for project approval, and will continue to exercise our right to participate in the regulatory process.
“We will assess the Revised Project on its merits and will carefully weigh the impacts and benefits of the Revised Project. Technical information will be reviewed and assessed by experts retained by Piikani Nation - not by Northback - so that we can obtain an independent opinion.
“The regulatory process is a multi-year process. We will provide updates periodically.”
— Piikani Nation statement, November 3, 2025
So does Smith’s penchant for lying come from her association with her corporate lobbyists?
This is a total lie. The chief and council are very corrupt. They tell their people one thing and sleep with the Coal companies. They have even went to court with Northback to try to appeal so this dirty Australian corporation can slide in like the snake they are... throwing money no doubt.. at this corrupt government so they can once again steal the first nation's land water and air. Just because someone says misinformation does not make it truth.