RCMP not enforcing injunction at Alberta First Nation blockade

It was a clear statement of defiance by Alberta’s Woodland Cree First Nation Monday. I’m going to file this with the Great Spirit right now. After being served with a court order to end its blockade of an oil lease Rd. the chief throws the documents in the fire. It’s the latest chapter of a long, simmering dispute between the northern Alberta community and Obsidian Energy. RCMP say they won’t be enforcing the court order for now. We’re in a phase where we’re hoping to come to a peaceful agreement between the two parties. The First Nation says its relationship with Obsidian broke down after the company announced plans to drill 200 new wells without any consultation. A blockade was first set up back in February, but the First Nation took it down when the company agreed to talk. Months later, the chief says nothing has been resolved. They’re looking to exploit our lands, like basically take the resources and not. Not have anybody benefit are sharing the prosperity of that development. Calgary based Obsidian Energy declined to request for an interview, pointing Global News to a statement made earlier this year by the company’s CEO. We cannot accept their unrealistic terms that amount to a monopolistic relationship as our sole provider of certain services, Steven Lucas said. Last year, the Alberta Energy Regulator issued an Environmental Protection order against Obsidian for causing a series of earthquakes. Including the largest ever recorded in the province’s history. We just want to say, hey, we’re here, right? Work with us, listen to us. Don’t just keep trying to attack us and and manipulate us. RCMP say so far the blockade, which is on traditional Woodland Creek territory but not reserve land, has been peaceful, but the First Nation says it has no plans to back down. Heather Yorks, W Global News, Calgary.