On Monday, Premier Jason Kenney and Minister of Energy Sonya Savage said they stand behind the federal government’s decision to invoke the dispute settlement provision of the 1977 Transit Pipelines Treaty.
“Alberta stands firmly behind Canada formally invoking the dispute settlement provision of the 1977 Transit Pipelines Treaty to ensure Line 5 remains operational. We previously voiced our support for this strong action and we are pleased the federal government has listened and followed through,” said Premier, Jason Kenney. “The shutdown of a safely operating pipeline could potentially set a dangerous precedent for future infrastructure projects. This cannot be allowed to happen. As we continue to manage the devastating impact of the COVID-19 global recession, it’s more important now than ever that Canada and the U.S. work together to support a continental energy strategy.”
“It is a major piece of North America’s integrated energy system. The pipeline route, which has been operating safely for more than 68 years at the Straits of Mackinac, has been moving Canadian light crude and natural gas liquids to refineries in Sarnia.”Sonya Savage, Minister of Energy says the continued operation of Line 5 is non-negotiable. “More importantly, thousands of families and businesses on both sides of the border rely on Line 5. It supplies energy to heat homes in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, while also providing neighbouring states, Ontario and Quebec with reliable, safe energy.”