QUESTION PERIOD — Natural Resources
Trans Mountain Pipeline
June 18, 2019
Thank you for your answer, government leader. Of course, what we’re trying to do is give opportunity for a sector, one of our most important ones, to be able to diversify. Even if Trans Mountain goes through and they continue the construction of the adjacent pipeline, they still can’t ship out of Burnaby because the port is not deep enough.
In recent days, Premier Legault of Quebec has clearly stated that his government is opposed to Bill C-69. This morning, the premier of Newfoundland and Labrador also reiterated his province’s concerns about Bill C-69. Premier Ball indicated his province is still seeking amendments to this bill.
Senator Harder, even if your government gives final approval to the Trans Mountain expansion later today, as widely expected, Bill C-69 and Bill C-48 still cast a shadow over our energy sector.
Does your government understand the fear that Trans Mountain could be the last major project approved if Bill C-69 goes ahead in its current form?
I thank the honourable senator for his question. I would simply reference the excellent speech — he’s not here to hear the compliment so I can be more effusive than I otherwise would — of Senator Mitchell in speaking to the message yesterday. We will have robust debate here, I am sure, in the coming days. This Senate will make its decision with respect to the message from the other place.
Let me simply reiterate: It is the view of the Government of Canada that environmental assessment which is robust, has legitimacy, is seen to have the social licence and is appropriately conducted is an environmental assessment process that leads to projects that can be implemented.
