Yesterday interim federal Liberal leader Bob Rae suggested that he does not approve the construction of the Northern Gateway oil pipeline. Alberta Liberals respect Mr. Rae, but he is on the wrong side of this issue.

Projects such as this help ensure that Alberta’s most important export, our oil and gas, reaches the world market. Oil and gas is the foundation of Alberta’s prosperity. It puts food on the table for Alberta families; it pays for our schools, hospitals and roads.

Alberta Liberal Caucus support for expanding our markets to the west coast is already a matter of public record, but in light of yesterday’s announcement from Mr. Rae, we feel it necessary to reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that our oil and gas sector remains strong. Safely transporting our product is important to Alberta and good for Canada, and such projects should move forward as long as they do so with sufficient protection for the environment.

Alberta Liberals favour increased monitoring of emissions and pollution, stricter fines for companies that pollute, and incenting more upgrading within Alberta.

Office of the Leader of the Official Opposition
(780) 904-5430

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