Front Burner

Wet'suwet'en RCMP standoff sparks national protests

As the fight over a natural gas pipeline in northern B.C. continues, CBC reporter Chantelle Bellrichard reports on the tense scene from Wet’suwet’en territory.
Wet'suwet'en hereditary chief Madeek speaking to RCMP Chief Superintendent Dave Attfield on the phone while being prevented from crossing a police checkpoint into his territory. (Chantelle Bellrichard/CBC News)

The bitter fight over the construction of a natural gas pipeline in northern B.C. continues. Over the last several days, the RCMP has moved in to enforce a court order to allow Coastal GasLink to get to work on the $6 billion project. Dozens of people have been arrested on Wet'suwet'en territory where the pipeline passes through, and at solidarity protests across the country. Today, CBC reporter Chantelle Bellrichard explains why the stakes are so high for everyone involved.

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