Before getting into our goings-on in Narlandia, I’d love to share a membership update with you all. So far, 133 readers have stepped up to join — which means we’re nearly halfway toward our push to add 300 new members in June. Here’s what some of our newest Narwhals have to say:

“I understand the need for independent, ethical journalism in times like ours when fiction persuades more people than fact.”

“With traditional print media and investigative journalism on the wane we need The Narwhal to keep poking and prodding so that we can all stay informed.”

“Your investigative journalism is exactly what this country needs.”

We still need to add 167 members this month to make our budget work. Will you help us get there?

Now, an update on our recent poking and prodding, as promised:
 

“Nauseating.” 

That’s what Bloc Québécois MP Monique Pauzé said of the details revealed in an investigation into oil and gas lobbying by The Narwhal’s Carl Meyer. 

And those revelations that were so jarring?

Pathways Alliance, a coalition of six fossil fuel giants, lobbied the government to fast-track a major carbon capture and storage project — seeking assurance that it wouldn’t require a federal impact assessment. The alliance also asked for massive public subsidies, according to internal documents Carl got his hands on.

“This request is shocking to me when there’s a climate crisis, and I think it’s shameless,” Pauzé said as she and a host of MPs grilled oil and gas executives on their plans to reduce the industry’s environmental footprint. 

“In order to make such a demand, the alliance must have an unwavering and unshakeable confidence and certainty that the industry has a stronghold over the political system.”

There’s more to the story: the feds signed a non-disclosure agreement with the alliance a few months after the group’s request materialized.

Carl, who just won the Canadian Journalists’ Association award for reporting on Canada’s oil and gas lobby, told me he was thrilled to see his hard work having an impact on the political stage.
 

“It was hugely validating as a long term Parliament Hill reporter. My work has been referenced in Parliament before, but this felt different: an MP specifically taking time to say my name, my outlet, describing the story and weighing in on its importance.”

As The Narwhal’s climate investigations reporter, Carl is able to spend months in back-and-forth battles for documents — thanks to more than 6,000 readers who regularly donate what they can. The recurring monthly or annual contributions from our members means we can support star journalists like Carl who uncover the kinds of environment and climate stories you won’t find anywhere else.

And as The Narwhal grows its reach and impact, both industry lobbyists and MPs are taking notice. 

Take care and keep drilling for the truth, 

Karan Saxena
Audience engagement editor 

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