By The Canadian Press

B.C. Liberal MPs bracing for constituents after Kinder Morgan pipeline approval

Nov 30, 2016 | 9:53 AM

OTTAWA – British Columbia Liberal M-Ps say they’ve got some explaining to do in their ridings now that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has approved two major oil pipeline expansions.

North Vancouver M-P Jonathan Wilkinson says he expects some expressions of anger over approval of the Trans Mountain line through suburban Vancouver.

But he says he can easily defend the decision, if it is taken in context with the federal government’s enhanced environmental protection plan.

Joyce Murray, who holds the Vancouver Quadra riding, says she’s disappointed in the decision, but adds she hopes her constituents understand the government’s desire to boost the economy while protecting the environment.

Vancouver Centre M-P Hedy Fry says she’s not happy with the decision and is concerned it will hurt her at the ballot box in the next election.

Making an impact

Nanaimo woman publishes books to open awareness of neurodiverse children

10h ago

iconic voice

Legendary hockey broadcaster Bob Cole, a welcome voice for a half-century, dead at 90

17h ago

first response

New staffing model on Gabriola Island hires local paramedics for enhanced patient care

22h ago

Fry, who has held her riding for more than 20 years, says she will talk with her constituents about how they want to make their continuing concerns known to the Trudeau government.

Kinder Morgan’s Trans Mountain expansion has become a lightning rod for climate protests from coast to coast, with opponents from among Trudeau’s own caucus and his political ally, Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson.

Climate campaigners and indigenous groups immediately attacked the government decision as a betrayal, while B-C Environment Minister Mary Polak issued a statement noting the province’s own environmental assessment of Trans Mountain continues.

The Canadian Press