There are still questions regarding the local effects of Ontario’s proposed Northern Shield Energy Corridor, particularly about where land will be required if the project proceeds.
This week, the province revealed a suggested high-level route for a 3,300-kilometre crude oil pipeline stretching from Hardisty, Alberta to Sarnia. The pipeline is expected to transport around 500,000 barrels of oil daily, with potential expansion up to 800,000 barrels per day.
The province claims that this pipeline will enhance Canadian energy security, create jobs, and lessen dependence on foreign markets. However, in Midwestern Ontario, the public map has sparked concerns about whether the route might cross through parts of Bruce, Grey, Huron, Perth, or Wellington counties.
Huron-Bruce MPP and Rural Affairs Minister Lisa Thompson told CKNXNews Today. ca that this proposal is still in its very early phases.
“No, to be honest, this is very preliminary,” Thompson said when asked if she had seen any detailed proposed route beyond the public map.
Thompson mentioned that the announcement stems from a study indicating that Canada can develop more of its own energy infrastructure.
“We need to have more sovereignty over our energy infrastructure,” Thompson stated.
She noted that while the proposed path might go through Huron-Bruce, no final route has been established yet.
“At this time, according to the Ernst & Young study-and I emphasize this is very preliminary-it could potentially go through Huron-Bruce,” Thompson explained.
When asked if rural landowners should receive more specific information about the route before being asked to support it, Thompson acknowledged those discussions are forthcoming.
“Oh my goodness, ask me that question in 18 months,” Thompson replied. “Right now we’ve just received a study showing we can build our own energy infrastructure.”
Thompson was also questioned about what she would tell a farmer who might be looking at the map and wondering if their property would be affected by the line.
“They can trust that they have an MPP in Huron-Bruce who will ensure that when it’s appropriate and available to do so, we’ll provide accurate information,” Thompson assured.
She added that it’s crucial for local voices to be heard as things progress.
“As this process evolves and really gets underway, I’m going to make sure our voices and realities are understood and respected,” Thompson said.
The minister was further pressed on whether there were aspects of the proposal causing her concern at this stage-such as potential land expropriation if it moves forward.
“With all due respect, we can’t get ahead of ourselves,” Thompson emphasized. “There’s still so much work needed before we dive into specifics on a jurisdictional level-riding by riding.”
She mentioned that once additional details come out, transparency will be essential for the province.
“We’re going to maintain open communication; everything will be clear-cut and people can rely on having their voices heard,” Thompson asserted.
Other local MPPs also highlighted how early it is in this process.
Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Paul Vickers stated he received a briefing from the Ministry but noted that final decisions about both routing and timelines haven’t been made yet. He mentioned that while they expect part of the proposed route may enter his riding’s southeastern area-exact details remain undecided.
Vickers also indicated municipalities will take part in consultations alongside First Nations partners and communities.
Perth-Wellington MPP Matthew Rae’s office conveyed similar sentiments regarding how further analysis and consultation are necessary before anything is finalized. Rae noted more information would emerge once their feasibility study wraps up-which is projected by late 2026.
The Ministry of Infrastructure shared comparable insights with CKNXNews Today. ca stating what they’ve released thus far only provides an overview; additional specifics will follow post-feasibility work completion.
The province mentions consultation efforts have commenced-including fulfilling their duty to consult Indigenous partners and communities.
The feasibility study is anticipated to finish by year-end.
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Vickers also indicated municipalities will take part in consultations alongside First Nations partners and communities.
Perth-Wellington MPP Matthew Rae’s office conveyed similar sentiments regarding how further analysis and consultation are necessary before anything is finalized. Rae noted more information would emerge once their feasibility study wraps up-which is projected by late 2026.
The Ministry of Infrastructure shared comparable insights with CKNXNews Today. ca stating what they’ve released thus far only provides an overview; additional specifics will follow post-feasibility work completion.
The province mentions consultation efforts have commenced-including fulfilling their duty to consult Indigenous partners and communities.
The feasibility study is anticipated to finish by year-end.
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