NDP fractures emerge over LNG expansion

Just hours after the BC Government heralded moving forward on a major LNG expansion project, a member of Premier David Eby’s own cabinet went public expressing her disapproval of the decision.

On Friday morning, Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions Adrian Dix announced that FortisBC’s Tilbury LNG Phase 1B expansion in Delta would be exempted from needing to obtain a 'Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity' under the Utilities Commission Act.

The move represents a significant development in seeing the expansion materialize, with FortisBC now able to move forward with environmental assessments. If other permits are approved, construction could begin mid-2027.

Dix touted that the decision was an “investment in B.C.’s future, creating jobs, growing our economy and helping reduce emissions through an investment of more than $2 billion.”

BC approves FortisBC’s $2B Tilbury LNG expansion

The BC government has approved FortisBC’s more than $2-billion expansion of its Tilbury LNG Facility in Delta, clearing the way for a project it says will create jobs, strengthen the economy and support lower-emission marine shipping.

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But Later in the day Kelly Green, Minister of Emergency Management & Climate Readiness and MLA for Richmond-Steveston, issued a news release stating her “disappointment” with the news.

“For months, I have listened to safety concerns from people in my community. I raised those issues with government at every opportunity. I am disappointed with FortisBC’s decision, as I know many of those I represent will be. My position on this project has remained unchanged since before being elected to the legislature, said Greene in a statement.”

While backbench MLAs might periodically disagree with their own party, members of Cabinet are typically expected to publicly support the Government's positions after decisions are made.

Greene has long opposed to the Tilbury LNG plant, going back to her time as a Richmond City councillor. In November 2024, Green was promoted by Premier Eby to cabinet.

BC Conservative MLAs were quick to notice the apparent divisions within the NDP Government.

At this point, neither Premier Eby nor the BC NDP have offered comment on Greene's apparent dissent and whether Greene might face consequences for speaking out.

Greene’s public opposition to her own government’s’ decision follows a new poll from the Angus Reid Institute showing one-third of past NDP voters disapproving of David Eby’s performance, suggesting divisions within the broader NDP movement.

Eby approval hits new low as one-third of NDP voters dissatisfied, poll shows

A new poll shows approval for BC Premier David Eby falling even further, with just 27 per cent of British Columbians saying they approve of the Premier’s performance.

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