Calgary-based Enbridge said today that pipelines can be operated safely, responding to expanded opposition by First Nations in the extensive Fraser River Watershed to the company's proposed $5.5-billion Northern Gateway pipeline.
"Enbridge has significant experience crossing important waterways all across North America, that expertise will be applied to Northern Gateway," the company said in a statement released by Theresia Lee.
Enbridge acknowledged that some First Nations have expressed opposition to the project, but noted that others have signed protocol agreements with the company.
"Many have indicated project support as well, but quite naturally want to ensure that along the way, their interests and objectives are accommodated," the company said in its statement.
Sixty-one indigenous nations joined together in an alliance today to protect the Fraser River watershed and to declare their opposition to the proposed $5.5-billion Enbridge Northern Gateway Pipeline.
Signed in Williams Lake last week, and published in a full page ad in the Globe and Mail today, the "Save the Fraser Gathering of Nations" says the declaration is based on Indigenous law and authority.
It states that First Nations will not allow Enbridge's Northern Gateway pipeline, or similar tar sands projects, to cross their traditional lands, territories and watersheds, or the ocean migration routes of Fraser River salmon.
The 1,170-kilometre Enbridge pipeline, which would pass just north of Prince George, is meant to open up new markets for Alberta oil sands crude in Asia.
A two-year federal regulatory process is in the preliminary stages.
