West-to-east pipeline in Canada garners political support

Alberta Premier Alison Redford has said she believes a west-to-east pipeline carrying crude oil from Alberta to Saint John, New Brunswick, would meet little political opposition.

Redford said she has had discussions with Quebec Premier Pauline Marois over the potential pipeline project; the one province many have feared would reject such a project.

Redford clarified that Marois wants to ensure that the environment is protected, regulations are met and the business case is strong.

Recently, New Brunswick Premier David Alward spent time in Alberta talking to Redford and oil executives about the possibility of a west-to-east pipeline.

Although there are no official projects under consideration, TransCanada has said it might convert an existing, underused natural gas line for this route. No official application has yet been sent in to the National Energy Board, which is required to approve such projects.

TransCanada would have to undertake the pipeline upgrade works as well as constructing a new pipeline in New Brunswick to connect to the Irving Oil refinery, the largest in Canada.

Redford said pipeline companies themselves must drive any project, but political support from Alberta and New Brunswick is an asset.

Edited from various sources by Cecilia Rehn.

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