Saskatchewan joins push to end B.C. tanker ban, boost exports

The Government of Saskatchewan says Ottawa should end the tanker ban on British Columbia’s north coast. The province set out its position in a news release on Oct. 26.

The release says Saskatchewan supports Bill C-264, which the federal Conservative Party introduced. It encourages every federal party to work together so the bill moves through Parliament in a timely way. The bill has not passed, and the ban has not been lifted.

Premier Scott Moe said each new export opportunity strengthens the Canadian economy. He said greater capacity to move oil to market would create jobs and investment, lift what Western Canadian oil sells for, and add revenue for public services.

Energy and Resources Minister Chris Beaudry said the north coast gives shorter transit times to Asian markets and lowers shipping costs for each barrel. He said the province favours decisions based on evidence and on Canada’s marine regulation record, rather than blanket bans.

The release also says new export capacity would help narrow a widening price discount on Western Canadian Select heavy oil.

The release names no pipeline, terminal or project, and it gives no dollar figures. It describes the position as consistent with Saskatchewan’s long-held view on export capacity and says the government will keep backing measures that open new markets for energy producers.