Critics ask what’s the rush at pipeline hearings by regulator in Edmonton

EDMONTON – Critics of a proposed pipeline project from the Fort McMurray region to Edmonton say the province’s energy regulator seems determined to rush public participation in a review of the plan and they want to know why.

Hearings opened today on a TransCanada Pipeline plan for two new lines that would have a combined peak capacity of more than one million barrels a day.

It’s the first time the Alberta Energy Regulator has held a public hearing since being created to replace the Energy Resources Conservation Board.

But lawyer Keith Wilson, who represents landowners and companies along the route, says the new regulator is hobbling their participation through tight timelines.

He says his clients had only days to respond to important new information filed by TransCanada.

He also objects to new rules at the hearings that limit the amount of time company officials may be cross-examined.

Regulator spokesman Darin Barter says the two-hour limits are intended to force intervenors to get to the point.