Hearings resume in Edmonton into proposed Northern Gateway pipeline project

EDMONTON – Today marks the second day of hearings in Edmonton into the proposed Northern Gateway pipeline.

Proponents say the $6-billion project to ship Alberta oilsands crude to Asia-bound tankers on B.C.’s west coast is critical to the industry given the rapid growth of the oilsands and the soaring energy demand in Asia.

Environmentalists and many First Nations leaders in B.C. say given that the line would traverse 1,000 waterways and delicate wildlife habitats, the chance of a spill makes the line too risky at any price.

The review panel looking at the project by Calgary-based Enbridge represents the National Energy Board and the Canadian Environmental Assessment Authority.

It has been travelling around British Columbia and Alberta throughout the year hearing evidence.

The pipeline has sharply divided public debate, particularly in B.C., and the hearings have been witness to protests and demonstrations.