Mackenzie pipeline streamlining raises fears

CALGARY - The federal energy watchdog has suggested streamlining conditions for the proposed Mackenzie natural gas pipeline, a move raising the ire of environmental groups.

The National Energy Board proposed modifying 85 of 176 recommendations issued late December by a joint review panel on the social and environmental impacts of the Arctic pipeline.

"In the (National Energy Board's) view, some recommendations fall within the jurisdiction of other regulatory authorities," stated a letter to the panel, released late Tuesday. "Conditions imposed by the NEB in such cases could conflict with existing and future regulatory processes. Therefore, the (board) is considering not including such recommendations."

Environmental groups were "disappointed" by the regulator's proposed changes, saying it was taking a business-as-usual approach.

"The NEB is essentially rejecting the joint review panel's focus on ensuring economic and ecological sustainability, and the need to examine the cumulative effects of the basin-opening Mackenzie Gas Project," said Sheila Muxlow, acting director of the Prairie chapter of the Sierra Club.

The joint review panel has until the end of the month to respond to the board.