CALGARY – Getting access to markets for our natural resources is essential for Canada’s economic prosperity and today’s decision by the federal government to approve the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion for the second time is a good step forward.
Calgary Chamber President and CEO, Dr. Sandip Lalli, says it’s encouraging to hear the federal government begin to speak about being leaders in both energy production and climate change.
“This is a conversation that we are already championing alongside a Canada-wide group of Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade who are advocating for more ‘and’ conversations,” says Lalli. “Canadians for Natural Resources is about getting a fair price for our natural resources so that we can create a strategic plan for our country’s energy future.”
Recent studies estimate that the global demand for energy will increase by 25 per cent to peak in 2040. As one of the world’s largest producers of lower-carbon oil and gas, it is crucial that Canada’s products can get to market to displace higher emission global energy sources such as coal. Not only does this bring economic benefits to all Canadians, it also creates revenue for government and industry to invest into energy innovation that will reduce our emissions domestically.
However, there is still significant concern among investors and business community that proposed legislation like Bills C-69 and C-48 are going to create substantial delays and even block infrastructure projects like Trans Mountain.
“If we are serious about getting Canada’s resources to market, creating jobs, and bringing investment into the country, then we need to continue to have ‘and’ conversations, act with conviction and certainty, and ensure that strong economic and social policy is prioritized over divisive politics,” concludes Lalli.
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The Calgary Chamber is an independent non-profit, non-partisan business organization. For 128 years, the Chamber has worked to build a business community that nourishes, powers, and inspires the world.