Dec 19, 2013
The Redford government welcomes today’s decision of the independent Joint Review Panel that recommends approval of the Northern Gateway pipeline.
The recommendation, which will now go to the federal cabinet for final approval, marks a critical milestone toward getting Alberta’s oil to new international markets.
Diana McQueen, Minister of Energy, issues the following statement:
“As Premier Redford has said, opening new markets for our resources is job one for our government and critical to our continued economic success. New markets mean we will receive higher prices for our resources – creating and supporting more jobs, and generating higher royalties and taxes to help pay for the vital public services like quality health care and education that Albertans expect.
“Last month, Alberta and B.C. reached an agreement to guide the movement of Alberta oil and gas to Canada’s west coast. The agreement addresses B.C.’s five conditions and reflects our shared commitment to create jobs and long-term growth, and to position Canada as a true global energy superpower.
“While today’s decision is an important step toward achieving that goal, there is still much work ahead for Enbridge to satisfy the many conditions set out by the Joint Review Panel as well as meeting B.C.’s five conditions. I have confidence that, thanks to our partnership with the B.C. government, Enbridge has a clear path forward in meeting the needs of communities and First Nations in both provinces and seeing this important economic project through to completion.
“We appreciate the incredible amount of time, consideration of the facts and careful thought put into this decision by the Joint Review Panel, and we look forward to federal cabinet review of this project.”
Robin Campbell, Minister of Environment and Sustainable Resource Development, says:
“Today’s decision is not only a positive step forward in accessing new markets for our oil, but an opportunity to show the world that Canadian energy development is done with a high degree of environmental responsibility.
“For Alberta to further advance its social licence to operate, industry and governments alike must continue to take a leadership role in protecting the environment. The conditions set out by the Joint Review Panel in today’s decision send a strong message that energy development must be balanced with strong environmental stewardship.”
Under the Building Alberta Plan, our government is investing in families and communities, living within our means, and opening new markets for Alberta’s resources to ensure we’re able to fund the services Albertans told us matter most to them. We will continue to deliver the responsible change Albertans voted for.
EDITORS NOTE:
Alberta Energy Minister Diana McQueen will be available to the media at 4 p.m. in the Legislature Carillon Room.
Media dial in: 1-888-231-8189
Conference ID: 28445766
Media inquiries
Mike Feenstra
Press Secretary, Energy
780-643-9126
Bart Johnson
Communications, Energy
780-422-3667
call toll free within Alberta dial 310-0000