Local MLA Mike Allen is back from representing the province abroad.
Allen attended the annual convention of the U.S. Council of State Governments Midwest.
That’s a group of 11 states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
He says even though Alberta’s just an affiliate member, the oilsands were one of the hottest topics.
“Some of them were feeling some pressure from their constituents that didn’t necessarily want to see a pipeline come through, or were concerned about climate change,” he recounted.
In the end, however, the conference passed a resolution in support of the Keystone XL pipeline.
Allen says despite some legislators’ concerns, his message was clear.
“Alberta oil sands are a major contributor to their oil supply,” he said. “And we’re a stable and reliable energy source for them.”
“That message is continually being reinforced and there’s no question in my mind that they understand that.”
He says the province will be touring as many as 7 U.S. legislators through the oil sands next month.
Published July 23, 2012
