A First Nations consortium has tabled an offer to buy in to the Trans Mountain pipeline as we wait for a yes or no decision from the Trudeau government today.

Whispering Pines First Nation Chief Mike LeBourdais says after meeting with federal Finance Minister Bill Morneau his sense is if it is a ‘Yes’ today then the pipeline will be built first and a sale would come later.

“They are playing their cards vest close to their chest but they were sharing with us that First Nations participation in the pipeline expansion will be a priority for them,” he said.

LeBourdais says he was told First Nations could be offered a percentage of the pipeline with the option to buy more.

“If it’s a no, then I still want to buy it.” I keep seeing these people saying, “Oh, it’s not worth anything.” “Well good, sell it to me for $1 and we’ll see how fast it’s worth something.”” added LeBourdais.

He is now discussing options within his group and with their TD financial representatives with the feeling any Trans Mountain sale is likely at least two years away.