National Energy Board: news release

The National Energy Board (NEB) hearing panel for the Trans Mountain Expansion Project (the Project) has issued a procedural direction announcing the details for oral summary argument.

The hearing panel will hear oral summary argument for the Project from Trans Mountain Pipelines on 24^th August in the NEB Hearing Room, Calgary, Alberta. From 9^th - 30^th September, 76 intervenors will deliver an oral summary argument at the Delta Burnaby Hotel and Conference Centre in Burnaby, British Columbia.

A public broadcast

The hearing panel recognises that there is significant public interest in the proceedings and has decided to live webcast of the oral summary arguments for the Project hearings in both video and audio, and in both official languages. This is the first time the NEB will use video for its live broadcast. The video will also be available on the website for download at the end of the day.

What is the oral summary argument?

The oral summary argument will allow participants to summarise their views and opinions directly in front of the hearing panel that is assessing the Project application. The hearing panel chose to hear oral summary argument from intervenors in Burnaby to facilitate maximum participation from intervenors in the hearing. Intervenors that are unable to deliver their oral argument in person may also choose to deliver it by phone.

The hearing panel wishes to provide a fair and safe opportunity for all participants that will be providing oral summary argument. Access to the hearing room will be limited to intervenors, Trans Mountain, and accredited media. Intervenors and Trans Mountain may each have two representatives in the hearing room when the hearing is in session, regardless of whether they are presenting that day or simply watching the hearing.

Edited from press release by Stephanie Roker

Read the article online at: https://www.worldpipelines.com/business-news/29072015/national-energy-board-news-release/