Burnaby Douglas MP Kennedy Stewart is opening his office doors to people who want to have their say on Kinder Morgan's proposal to run a pipeline through Burnaby Mountain.
The National Energy Board is accepting new applications from people hoping to intervene in the pipeline hearing, but only for those affected by the newly proposed route through Burnaby Mountain or those who have expertise to offer.
"I encourage residents and those who use the area to apply to have their views heard as the NEB considers whether or not to allow Kinder Morgan to build a second crude-oil, export pipeline from Edmonton to Burnaby," Stewart said in a news release. "I understand people are skeptical about the hearings, but I believe Canadians must use these official processes so there is a record of their involvement."
Kinder Morgan wants to build a pipeline through Burnaby Mountain to connect the tank farm and the marine terminal while avoiding the Westridge residential area. Much of the mountain is city-owned land and a dedicated conservation area, with possible earthquake hazards and steep dropoffs. The new application period is for people who are directly affected by the pipeline, but those with relevant expertise are also invited to apply as participants.
The application period opened Monday and closes on Sept. 24.
Those who have already been accepted as intervenors need not apply again, as they can comment on any aspect of the project, including the Burnaby Mountain route. Those who applied as intervenors but were downgraded to commenter status can re-apply as intervenors for the mountain route.
Stewart's office will be open Monday to Friday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Volunteers will be available to help people apply until the deadline on Sept. 24.
Stewart's not the only one available to help with the application process. The NEB also has process advisors and online training conferences for prospective participants.
Go to www.neb-one.gc.ca/transmountainexpansion for information on applying, or call 1-800-899-1265 and ask for the process advisor for the Trans Mountain hearing.
