Transport Canada has "no regulatory concerns" with Enbridge's proposed marine operations for the Northern Gateway Pipeline, clearing the way for supertankers to carry Canadian crude across the Pacific.
In a statement issued Thursday, Transport Canada said it has finished its review of the proposed tanker traffic that would sail through waters of B.C.'s North Coast, taking crude from the Alberta oilsands to overseas markets in China.
"While there will always be residual risk in any project, after reviewing the proponent's studies and taking into account the proponent's commitments, no regulatory concerns have been identified for the vessels, vessel operations, the proposed routes, navigability, other waterway users and the marine terminal operations associated with vessels supporting the Northern Gateway Project," said Transport Canada.
Some of the opposition to Enbridge's $6.6-billion dollar project has been based in concerns over a supertanker oil spill off the coast of B.C., and Prince Rupert fishing advocates say it's the potential human error that leads locals to continue to oppose the project.
"It exists, it will happen. That's a reality and each and every time that is the deciding factor," said Des Nobels.
"So, as safe as any shipping lane is, it's only as safe as any individual driving down it. The whole question of a spill is not a question of IF it's a question of WHEN," said Nobels.
But Enbridge says the endorsement shows the company has done due diligence when it comes to safety for all shipping on B.C.'s North Coast.
"It is important for the public, particularly B.C. residents, to know that we've done our homework and that our marine plan has been thoroughly reviewed," said Janet Holder, Enbridge's senior executive with responsibility for the Northern Gateway Project.
"I think the TERMPOL report underlines that what we are proposing is well planned and safe - and indeed would enhance safety for all shipping on B.C.'s North Coast," said Holder.
The review was signed off on by Transport Canada, Environment Canada, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the Canadian Coast Guard and Pacific Pilotage Authority Canada.
A federal government joint review panel examining the Northern Gateway Project has been making stops across Alberta and B.C. since January, and will make its next stop in Old Masset beginning Feb. 28.
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