CAPP: majority of Canadians approve Ottawa’s approach to pipelines

The results also show the number of British Columbians who support the approval of the Trans Mountain expansion project (54%) is more than double those who oppose it (26%). The same is true for Line 3 replacement project, where results show the number of British Columbians who support the approval (53%) is more than double those who oppose it (19%).

British Columbians' agreement with Ottawa's approach ranks above the national average on each of the four decisions. Support for Ottawa's plan is highest in Alberta and B.C. and lowest in Québec and Atlantic Canada.

On 29 November, the government of Canada approved the Trans Mountain expansion project and the Line 3 replacement project, but rejected the Northern Gateway project. The Canadian government also announced it will proceed with a moratorium on crude oil tanker traffic off the north coast of B.C.

CAPP President and CEO, Tim McMillan, had the following to say regarding the poll: "A majority of Canadians agree the Government of Canada has taken a balanced approach to pipelines … Canadians want to see governments take action on climate change but Canadians also want their governments to take action to grow our economy. These decisions can balance both – and Canadians support these decisions … It's important we continue to listen to all Canadians – both those in favour of pipelines and those opposed – to have a balanced conversation about our energy future.”

When discussing the Trans Mountain and Line 3 projects, he commented: "The Ipsos results show that in their approval of Trans Mountain and Line 3 pipelines, the government of Canada has the support of most Canadians … A majority of British Columbians approve of Ottawa's decision to expand the Trans Mountain pipeline – to connect Canada's energy to new customers around the world and support jobs for Canadians … As most British Columbians support the approval of Trans Mountain pipeline expansion, we need to move forward with construction and with creating jobs for Canadians."

Finally, on Northern Gateway and Tanker Moratorium, McMillan stated: "We respect Ottawa's decision on Northern Gateway. Naturally we are disappointed that this project to connect Canadian energy with the world is not going to be built. British Columbians appear split on the project too, with as many in favour as opposed to it … The protection of Canada's coasts is a priority for all Canadians, for governments and for industry. We hear and respect the views of Canadians. We will continue to collaborate with governments and communities to listen and work together on the tanker moratorium to find a path forward."

 

Detailed results of the Ipsos poll can be found here.

Read the article online at: https://www.worldpipelines.com/business-news/21122016/capp-majority-of-canadians-approve-ottawas-approach-to-pipelines/