Government approves Northern Gateway pipeline
- EFN Staff | June 17, 2014
The federal government has agreed to let Enbridge build its Northern Gateway pipeline, subject to 209 conditions recommended by the National Energy Board as well as further talks with Aboriginal communities.
The proposed pipeline would run from Bruderheim, Alberta, to Kitimat, British Columbia.
According to the federal government's release, Enbridge has to show the NEB how it will meet the 209 conditions and has to apply for more permits from the federal and provincial governments.
"In addition, consultations with Aboriginal communities are required under many of the 209 conditions that have been established and as part of the process for regulatory authorizations and permits. The proponent clearly has more work to do in order to fulfill the public commitment it has made to engage with Aboriginal groups and local communities along the route," said the statement.
The pipeline has faced opposition from numerous Aboriginal groups.
"This was the announcement we expected from the Harper Government. They have continued to blatantly ignore what British Columbians and First Nations citizens have continually and unequivocally stated - the Enbridge Northern Gateway Project cannot go ahead," said Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, President of the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs, in a release from the First Nations Leadership Council (made up of the B.C. Assembly of First Nations, First Nations Summit, and the Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs).
B.C. Assembly of First Nations Regional Chief Jody Wilson-Raybould added, "Though not surprising, it is extremely unforunate and frustrating that the federal government has seen fit to approve Northern Gateway in the face of overwhelming public opposition."
"This is by no means the end of the conversation," she added.