EAGLE SPIRIT THE WAY TO GO
Mike Priaro, P.Eng.
First uploaded, July 3, 2018
Published in The Star, Canada's highest circulation newspaper, on July 2, 2018
The pipeline mess is far worse than many realize.
Justin Trudeau has risked $4.5 billion to buy the existing Trans Mountain pipeline and will risk another $7.4 billion-plus to construct the expansion proposed by Kinder Morgan.
The existing Trans Mountain pipeline is 65 years old — old for a pipeline. Enbridge discovered its Line 3 pipeline needed complete replacement at 40.
When, not if, and sooner, not later, the existing Trans Mountain pipeline must be replaced, up to another $7.4 billion will be required for total risked taxpayer funds nearing $20 billion.
There is a better, more efficient, and safer alternative in the proposed Eagle Spirit energy corridor from the oilsands to marine terminals near Prince Rupert, B.C.
The proposed Eagle Spirit pipeline would be higher capacity, less expensive, sustainable — and nation building rather than dividing. It is supported by unions, local municipalities, markets, industry and B.C. Green Party Leader Andrew Weaver. In addition, Eagle Spirit is led and advanced by First Nations.
It makes absolutely no sense that Trudeau’s Liberals are blocking Eagle Spirit with Bill C-48, the Oil Tanker Moratorium Act, which applies only to B.C.’s north coast. — Mike Priaro, Calgary
