Clarity needed on pipeline bailout

If you were following the subject of the Trans Mountain pipeline project last week, it took yet another confusing turn. On Wednesday the Trudeau Liberal government announced that it would use tax dollars to compensate Trans-Mountain pipeline developer Kinder Morgan for financial losses which could result from B.C. NDP Premier John Horgan’s attempts to delay or obstruct the project.

As is often the case with an announcement from this Liberal government, the potential cost of compensating Kinder Morgan is unknown.

Likewise the definition of costs has yet to be defined.

The project is expected to cost roughly $7.4 billion and the Liberal government has also hinted that possibly if not Kinder Morgan, another company could be brought in to complete the construction.

In response, Kinder Morgan has indicated that the May 31 deadline for “clarity on a path forward” remains a priority as a result of the required construction window.

Kinder Morgan also stated that they are not in “alignment” with the Liberal government on this announcement and that discussions are ongoing.

The prime minister has continued to state his strong support for the Trans Mountain pipeline and that his Government has made a commitment that the pipeline will get built as it is in Canada’s national interest.

From my perspective, the pipeline subject is a polarizing one with many citizens either strongly opposed or strongly in favour.

For the record I support the prime minister in approving this project.

I have heard little support for this private project being publicly subsidized by taxpayers, largely because of continued inaction from the federal Liberal government.

My question this week: Whether or not you are in favour of this project, do you support the prime minister’s idea that taxpayers should compensate Kinder Morgan for losses which may result from delays?

I can be reached at Dan.Albas@parl.gc.ca or call toll free 1800-665-8711.