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Natural Resource Minister 'hopeful' cabinet will make a decision on Trans Mountain

Last Updated Feb 24, 2019 at 10:07 am MDT

Natural Resources Minister Amarjeet Sohi speaks about the government's plan for the Trans Mountain Expansion Project during a news conference in Ottawa on October 3, 2018. Canada's natural resources minister says the government will not be "cutting corners" in order to speed up the full review process for the Trans Mountain pipeline. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld

CALGARY (660 NEWS) — Canada’s Natural Resource Minister is calling the National Energy Board’s endorsement of the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion a major milestone.

The next step is for the cabinet to give the project the green light and they’ve only been given 90 days to do so, but they do have the ability to extend that deadline.

READ MORE: NEB green-lights Trans Mountain expansion

Minister Amarjeet Sohi isn’t giving any kind of clue in terms of the timeline that he’s looking at, only that they want to make sure they get it right.

“At this time, I am hopeful that we will be able to conclude these consultations in the next 90 days and cabinet be able to make a new decision,” he said.

READ MORE: ‘We can do big things’: Rachel Notley pleased with NEB Trans Mountain approval recommendation

Sohi said they are digging deeper into the recommendations, but was vague, only saying that they align with Canadian values.

“We are putting in place effective response in case of a spill that may happen, giving proper support to coast guards,” he said.

The government has met with 85 First Nations communities to date, he alone has met with 50, as he works to strengthen his own position.