Northern Gateway panel releases conditions for pipeline ahead of final arguments

VANCOUVER – The panel weighing the future of the proposed Northern Gateway pipeline has released a long list of conditions that the pipeline proponent needs to meet in order to allow the project to go ahead.

The joint federal review panel says the release of conditions does not mean a decision has been made, but rather is a required step in the process.

Among the dozens of conditions for the twin pipelines from Alberta to a tanker port in Kitimat, B.C., is that the company would have to have enhanced oil spill response capabilities in place.

The Enbridge (TSX:ENB) Northern Gateway project would have to submit a plan for monitoring the environmental and marine effects of the pipeline, as well as tracking aboriginal, local and regional employment.

The company would also have to submit plans for monitoring species at risk and file a caribou habitat restoration plan.

The panel says it expects to hear from participants on the conditions during final arguments slated to begin next month. Their report must be completed by the end of the year.