Energy East's demise is unwelcome news for workers

TORONTO, Oct. 5, 2017 /CNW/ - Unifor was disappointed to learn that the Energy East pipeline proposal has been withdrawn and says that a national energy strategy is needed more than ever.

"Unlike most other pipeline proposals being discussed today, Energy East had significant benefit for Canadians," said Jerry Dias, Unifor National President. "The National Energy Board's inability to secure this project only underscores how ineffective it has become."

Unifor has supported TransCanada's Energy East pipeline from Hardisty to Saint John. Energy East would have created good, long-term jobs in Canada in the refining industry, something absent from the proposed Keystone XL, Northern Gateway, and the massive expansion of the Transmountain pipeline through Burnaby.

"It's not a matter of saying 'no' to any or all pipelines, but rather assessing which projects deliver a benefit to Canadians over the long term," said Dias. "It would appear that the National Energy Board has no clue how to manage Canadian oil and gas resources so it's time to overhaul the system."

Unifor is Canada's largest union in the private sector, representing more than 315,000 workers in every major area of the economy. The union advocates for all working people and their rights, fights for equality and social justice in Canada and abroad, and strives to create progressive change for a better future.

SOURCE Unifor