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The proposed Keystone Pipeline

 

The rejection for the TransCanada Keystone XL Pipeline could cost Shaunavon the economic benefits its construction would have brought.

The proposed pipeline that was to send oil from Alberta down to the southern United States would have been built through the southwest corner of our province, only a few kilometres away from the town. Town Administrator in Training, Jay Meyer says TransCanada was already preparing for the construction by bringing in materials.

"This past summer we've seen many trucks travelling down Highway 37," Meyer says. "About six miles south of Shaunavon they've got a piece of 10-15 acre property where they've been storing the pipeline."

With the current pipeline proposal now dead in the water, it could mean a major loss of economic benefit for the town. "Anytime you can get an influx of employees in and around your community, some of the benefits would be additional money to some of our smaller businesses, our hotels, our restaurants," Meyer adds.

While US President Barack Obama has rejected the current application for the pipeline, TransCanada is still optimistic they can get it built in the future through a revised plan.

Shawn Mullin talked with Shaunavon's Jay Meyer...