West Coast pipeline project advances toward 'national interest' designation
The Canadian federal government is moving to designate a new oil pipeline project as a 'national interest' initiative, a move that would fast-track approvals and bypass certain environmental regulations. Critics, including environmental groups and opposition leaders, have condemned the decision as a disregard for climate goals and public oversight.
Why it matters
The project underscores the ongoing conflict between Canada's economic reliance on fossil fuels and its stated climate change commitments.
OTTAWA - The federal government is advancing the process to designate a proposed oil pipeline to the West Coast as a “national interest” project.
Naming a project in the national interest under the Building Canada Act allows the government to fast-track approvals and skirt some environmental laws.
A notice published in the Canada Gazette on Aug. 1 sets a Sept. 18 deadline to submit comments on the national interest designation.
The proposed pipeline project has been referred already to the government’s major projects office, with the Alberta government listed as the proponent. The pipeline would be owned by Trans Mountain, the Alberta Petroleum Marketing Commission and Pembina Pipeline Corporation.
Pembina has a 10 per cent ownership stake in the construction, with an option to purchase an additional 10 per cent once the pipeline is operational.
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