The Fraser Institute has put forward a different approach on how future mega-energy projects should proceed.

Spokesperson Gerry Angevine says even before applications for pipelines are put forward, the various parties involved should get together and flush out plans.

(We should be) “bringing people together, our First Nations, industry and government representatives to identify transportation corridors that can be used in the future,” Angevine tells 660News. “So that when projects are proposed, it’s a no brainer.  We’ve already got the corridors, the pathways approved.”

Angevine says he’s glad that Ottawa is speeding up the hearing process for energy projects, but more can be done.  

He feels even before applications are submitted, the various parties involved should get together, something that could happen well away from the decision-making boardroom.

“Within the next 12 months, they could make a number of significant changes,” adds Angevine. “Certainly so that we could be assured of having projects that are feasible and for which the environmental risk can be addressed.”

The Fraser Institute says it’s imperative Canada find new markets for its energy projects in order to reduce our reliance on the U.S. economy.  It also estimates that approval of the Northern Gateway pipeline project from Alberta to the west coast would pump more than $10.5 billion into our economy, creating thousands of jobs.