Federal ads were to address controversies around Northern Gateway: documents

VANCOUVER – An internal document shows that one of the key concerns for the federal government in a multimillion-dollar advertising campaign was the negative publicity around the proposed Northern Gateway pipeline.

The document, obtained by The Canadian Press under The Access to Information Act, shows Natural Resources Canada was also concerned about changes to federal environmental laws affecting the pipeline project.

The statement of work provided to the ad company a year ago notes that media coverage had been critical of the legislative changes giving federal cabinet power to override the National Energy Board on project approval.

The April 2012 document said there was also criticism aimed at the government of changes that limited public participation in joint review panel hearings which are currently taking place in B.C.

The document emphasizes that it was important to increase public awareness and understanding of the Government’s balanced approach to energy policy.

In an emailed statement, Natural Resources Minister Joe Oliver said the advertising campaign was meant to relay facts to the public about measures taken by the government to protect the environment.