Trans Mountain supports employment, training and business opportunities for Indigenous People. As part of the engagement process, we have been working collaboratively with Indigenous People that might have an interest in the Project, or have Indigenous interests potentially affected by the Project. Our focus is to support access to economic opportunities that will arise from the Project. Our primary objective is to maximize opportunities for Indigenous People and we will work in partnership with Indigenous communities and our construction contractors to achieve this.
In our discussions with Indigenous People, we seek to understand their interest in economic opportunities including employment and skills training, contracting capacity and existing business operations. We are sharing information on the types of business opportunities that may become available, how Indigenous businesses can qualify to pursue opportunities, and the qualification requirements.
As we create partnerships and shared goals with communities, we believe economic development that is safe, environmentally responsible and sustainable can occur and bring shared, long-term prosperity.
Commercial Agreements
Mutual Benefit Agreements (MBAs) and other similar commercial agreements are confidential between the signatory parties, and define a voluntary and mutually beneficial long-term relationship between the Project and a particular Indigenous community. The benefits can include pipeline construction education and jobs training, skills enhancement, business opportunities or improved community services and infrastructure. These agreements are formed with Indigenous communities that are immediately on, or potentially impacted by, the Project and marine corridor from Alberta to Vancouver Island.
Employment and Training
Construction of the Expansion Project will take place in a phased approach. During construction, the anticipated workforce will reach the equivalent of 15,000 jobs per year, followed by the equivalent of a further 37,000 direct, indirect and induced jobs per year of operations. We recognize the Project will spark ample opportunities for Indigenous People to secure employment.
Our Employment Policy is aimed at enhancing employment opportunities for Indigenous People with the Project. We have established a funding program to contribute to education and training initiatives focusing on transferable construction and related skills that allow for employment in various work environments. We have also developed a Training Policy for Indigenous People focused on creating initiatives that increase the long-term capability for Indigenous People to participate in the economy and to share in the success of the Project. Through the Indigenous Engagement Program, we are discussing employment and training opportunities with interested Indigenous communities.
In addition to engagement with Indigenous communities, extensive consultation is ongoing with training providers, industry associations and communities to inform and gather labour market information, interests and the current capacity of the community.
