With the Oil Pipeline spill near Prince Albert discussion has increased about pipelines in general. David Anderson MP for the Cypress Hills Grasslands was asked about his feelings towards pipelines in general. David answered: “Nobody likes to see a situation like this [in Prince Albert]; companies need to be responsible for the management of their properties”. With over 200,000 litres of oil released the impact on the environment is substantial.

The only alternative to pipe lines is railway transportation of oil products. Since 2008 there has been an increase in railway accidents near populated areas like Lac-Megantic in Quebec. The devastation to lives and buildings is substantial when these accidents occur.

David points out pipeline distribution is safer, “It’s still the safest way to be transporting crude product.” Since the 2013 derailment in Lac-Megantic regulations have tightened for oil transportation in Canada, “Canada actually has one of the strongest regulatory systems in the world” explained Anderson. “We need to make sure we build on that and make sure companies are paying attention to them”.