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Plans for the Keystone Pipeline

A representative from TransCanada seems to be staying positive about the future of the Keystone XL Pipeline despite a recent rejection of their application by US President Barack Obama.

"We've had very favourable comments from people in southwest Saskatchewan," said Darren Paquin with Keystone stakeholder relations. "We've had nothing but support from the folks down here. It's been very positive for the most part."

Paquin expects local communities will benefit when the pipeline is eventually built.

"Whether it's tax revenues or other benefits," Paquin said. "When people are going to be building the pipeline... (they) will be providing other benefits such as shopping in the local stores."

Paquin is in the area for public meetings on proposed SaskPower transmission lines that would power the pumping stations for the proposed pipeline.

He says relations with SaskPower have been very productive.

Two more open houses are set for today at the Gull Lake Hall and tomorrow at the Shaunavon Legion Hall, from noon to 7:00pm each day.

Paquin wouldn't comment on when TransCanada might re-apply for their oil pipeline from Alberta to through southwest Saskatchewan to the US.

Colin Powers interviews Darren Paquin: