Energy East Tar Sands Pipeline Hits Major Snag as TransCanada Forced to Scrap Termina

‘The pipeline giant TransCanada has announced it is scrapping its plan for an oil export terminal on the St. Lawrence River in Cacouna, Québec, in turn delaying the completion of the Energy East tar sands pipeline for at least two years.

Explaining its decision, the corporation cited concerns over the terminal’s impact on Beluga whales, including a scientific report last December that recommended they be declared an endangered species with full protection of their habitat.

“This decision is the result of the recommended change in status of the Beluga whales to endangered and ongoing discussions we have had with communities and key stakeholders,” said Russ Girling, TransCanada’s president and chief executive officer. “We have listened and our decision reflects that.”

In response to the news, environmentalists celebrated a partial victory.’

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