Prince George, B.C.-  Enbridge says  it is pleased with the announcement of the Federal Government’s approval of the Northern Gateway twin pipeline but recognizes  there is  still a lot of work to do.  “ The decision is one more step in the process; a process that requires a considered and respectful approach with our stakeholders” says Enbridge President and Chief Executive Officer, Al Monaco.  “Going forward, we will focus on three priorities: meeting the JRP's conditions, working with the Province of B.C. on its five conditions for supporting oil pipelines; and continuing to engage Aboriginal communities to build further trust and seek additional input that would make the project even better."

Monaco says the project has  been open to change and will continue to do so , “to make this project better.”

He says there is not much disagreement in the issue of economics, but adds “The economic benefits alone are not enough to sustain public support.”  He says the company is committed to exceeding all safety standards.

Monaco says  having offices in Prince George, Kitimat and Vancouver, have helped the company understand the  issues. “You simply cannot run a project like this from Alberta.”

He says   several polls  now show more  British Columbians support the project than oppose it,  “That’s a major shift  from  where we were just 18 months ago.”

Janet Holder, Project Manager, based in Prince George says it will take 12 to 15 months to  meet all the 209 conditions  set out by the Joint Review  Panel. “During that time  we will continue to work to build trust along the right of way and  with Aboriginal communities.,  We know we have more work to do to re-engage with some of our First Nations communities along the proposed route and to continue our engagement with British Columbians  and Canadians and we are committed to doing that work.”