The Saskatchewan government is welcoming the decision of the National Energy Board's independent Joint Review Panel released yesterday which recommends approval of the Northern Gateway pipeline project.
The Joint Review Panel's recommendation states that "Canada and Canadians would be better off" if the project goes forward, subject to a substantial range of conditions detailed in their report.
"Increased pipeline capacity in western Canada benefits all Canadians," Energy and Resources Minister Tim McMillan said. "In Saskatchewan it means more benefits for our petroleum sector and particularly for our people - more jobs and additional investment, as well as royalties that will assist us as we manage our province's continued growth. We are encouraged by this decision, which is a crucial first step in what must be a responsible and carefully considered process."
Saskatchewan is Canada's second-largest oil producer. Oil and gas sales are expected to reach close to $15 billion in 2013 with the industry contributing approximately $1.6 billion in revenue to the provincial economy.
The Joint Review Panel was established in 2009 by the National Energy Board and the federal environment minister to assess the effects of the Northern Gateway pipeline from economic, environmental and social perspectives.
