CALGARY (660 NEWS) – The Trans Mountain expansion project seems to be moving forward after the National Energy Board endorsed the pipeline saying it is “in the national interest”.
READ MORE: NEB green-lights Trans Mountain expansion
For some companies, it isn’t surprising.
“Because we knew this was a high-quality project that had already met the NEB’s initial review, with the enhanced review it was essential that we got the outcome that we did,” Tim McMillan, president and CEO of the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers, said.
He said it’s assuring to hear how thorough the report was, and he feels the environmental concerns were judged adequately.
READ MORE: ‘See you in court’: Opposition groups on NEB Trans Mountain pipeline endorsement
He also found it interesting to hear the NEB suggesting that direct impacts on marine life would be minimal, and there might even be a chance for improvements to the environment through conditions and recommendations set forward by the board.
The next step is awaiting further consultations from the federal government, but McMillan hopes shovels will be in the ground by the end of the year.
“The economics of getting this built, sooner rather than later, is good for everyone in Canada — the provinces, country and its citizens.”
READ MORE: ‘We can do big things’: Rachel Notley pleased with NEB Trans Mountain approval recommendation
