Federal Energy Minister hopes Alberta and B.C. wont need to meet in court

CALGARY (660 NEWS) — Can the trade spat between Alberta and British Columbia be solved without heading to court?

“It is always better when all leaders are able to work together with each other to resolve issues through mutual agreements and mutual understanding and cooperation and collaboration,” said Federal Energy Minister Amarjeet Sohi, dodging the question.

Bill 12 has only been proclaimed, but if it was used it would allow Alberta to cut off oil to B.C.

Alberta is threatening to use it if B.C. doesn’t drop its opposition to the Trans Mountain Pipeline expansion, in turn, B.C. would likely retaliate which could lead to an escalating trade war between the provinces.

Sohi said it is the federal government’s responsibility, as the authority to ensure that inter-provincial pipeline construction and approval isn’t hindered by any obstruction at all.

“Our natural resource sector, including our oil and gas sector, has been a source of well-paying middle-class jobs not only for Albertans but also for British Columbians,” he stated, adding throughout the country others benefit from tax revenues.

Although he understands the tension, he is suggesting Alberta Premier Jason Kenney and B.C. Premier John Horgan work together to reach a mutual agreement.

“When our resources are able to get to global markets, not just oil and gas, but every other product (…) canola and agriculture products that we all prosper together, that we all benefit from it,” he said.

Kenney has told Sohi they aren’t taking any action on turning off the tap or constraining supplies to B.C.

Meantime, Sohi says they are continuing to work with B.C. to ensure they understand that Alberta’s oil can’t remain land-locked.

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