Alberta's line in the sand

Photo: The Canadian Press

Alberta Premier Rachel Notley

Alberta has refused to sign the official statement stemming from the western premiers meeting in Yellowknife because it didn't include support for the Trans Mountain pipeline.

The final communique deals with issues such as pharmacare and legalization of marijuana.

Alberta deputy premier Sarah Hoffman says without the wealth that would flow from the expansion of the pipeline, all discussions on such issues are moot.

B.C. Premier John Horgan's government is fighting the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion, which would triple the amount of oil flowing from Alberta to the British Columbia coast.

He says Alberta made its case at the meeting in a strong and passionate way, but his position remains the same.

The Alberta government has passed legislation that allows it to reduce oil flowing to B.C., which could drive up gas prices and other fuel-related costs.