The Globe and Mail reports in its Friday, May 16, edition that a group of 36 first nations is buying a minority interest in Enbridge's natural gas pipeline network in British Columbia for $715-million. The Globe's Jeffrey Jones writes that this investment aims to secure economic benefits from infrastructure that passes through their traditional territories. Stonlasec8 Indigenous Alliance LP will acquire a 12.5-per-cent interest in Enbridge's Westcoast gas system, which extends to B.C.'s Lower Mainland from the northeastern part of the province. Stonlasec8 has secured a $400-million loan guarantee under a program set up by Ottawa last year to ease the way for first nations, Metis and Inuit peoples to gain equity interests in major industrial projects. It is the first group to do so. The partners are launching the alliance as increasing numbers of Canadians voice support for expanding the country's energy infrastructure in the face of trade tension with the United States. Stonlasec8 president David Jimmie said indigenous participation is critical if Canada aims to build pipelines and other industrial developments. Indigenous groups are increasingly seeking to participate in economic opportunities from projects.