The Saint Croix Courier

By BARB RAYNER

WASHINGTON – Canadian Ambassador to the U.S. Michael Wilson has once again expressed serious concerns about the proposed construction of LNG terminals on the Maine side of Passamaquoddy Bay.

In a letter to Jon Wellinghoff, chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), he says the Canadian government supports the responsible development of LNG terminals in North America as LNG will be an important source of natural gas in coming years.

“However, I am writing to express Canada's serious concerns with the proposals to construct LNG terminals on the Maine side of Passamaquoddy Bay in response to the draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for Downeast LNG which was released on May 15.”

Wilson drew attention to the Canadian government’s opposition to the passage of LNG tankers through Head Harbour Passage and said these are internal waters of Canada by virtue of historic title and Canada maintains the right to control and regulate their use.

“Canada's opposition is also based on concerns regarding navigational safety, environmental and other impacts that such projects could have on Canada.

“As stated in the draft EIS, government of Canada cooperation would be required to ensure safe passage. In light of continuing government of Canada opposition, you may therefore wish to advise project proponents that they should consider withdrawing their applications as these projects cannot go forward as envisioned.”

Wilson concludes his letter by saying Canada and the U.S. enjoy the world's largest integrated energy relationship and he remained committed to working with their government on enhancing that relationship in a way that takes into consideration the needs and concerns of both countries.