Poilievre Calls for Immediate Pipeline Approval Following U.S. Action in Venezuela

Conservative leader urges Ottawa to fast-track coastal pipeline approvals, citing energy security and global instability.

By Haitian Prime News|January 6, 2026|Ottawa, Canada

Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre is pressing the federal government to accelerate approval of a new Canadian coastal pipeline, pointing to recent U.S. actions in Venezuela as a warning sign of growing instability in global energy markets.

Speaking on January 6, Poilievre called on Ottawa to approve the proposed pipeline within 60 days of its submission, arguing that Canada must move swiftly to protect its economic interests and strengthen energy security. He criticized lengthy regulatory processes, saying delays prevent Canada from responding effectively to geopolitical shifts.

Venezuela holds approximately 303 billion barrels of crude oil, the largest proven reserves globally. However, years of neglect, mismanagement, and international sanctions have left the country’s oil sector in disrepair. Current production stands at roughly 1.1 million barrels per day, though analysts suggest output could potentially double or triple with sustained investment and policy stability.

Poilievre said dependence on politically unstable or sanctioned oil-producing states exposes North American economies to supply disruptions and price volatility. He argued that expanding Canada’s export capacity, particularly through coastal pipelines, would provide reliable access to global markets while reducing reliance on uncertain foreign producers.

In November, the federal Liberal government and the province of Alberta signed a memorandum of understanding committing to the development of at least one coastal pipeline project. The agreement emphasizes private financing and includes provisions for Indigenous co-ownership, reflecting evolving federal and provincial infrastructure policies.

Alberta officials expect to submit a formal application to the federal major projects office by July 1. Under existing regulations, major pipeline projects must undergo comprehensive environmental reviews and consultations, a process that can take several years to complete.

Poilievre maintains that the approval timeline must be significantly shortened to ensure Canada remains competitive as global energy dynamics shift. He warned that without decisive action, Canada risks missing a critical opportunity to assert itself as a stable and reliable energy supplier.

Sources:

Conservative Party of Canada – Pierre Poilievre public statements and press briefings https://www.conservative.ca

Government of Canada – Major Projects Management Office and federal pipeline review framework https://www.canada.ca/en/impact-assessment-agency.html