Ontario's premier is the latest politician to speak out against the State of Michigan's attempt to close Enbridge’s Line 5 pipeline.
In an interview with Sue Storr on CHOK (103.9 FM, 1070 AM) Doug Ford questioned why Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer wants to shut the pipeline down.
"It's unacceptable. These are 5,000 jobs directly in Sarnia-Lambton, not to mention all of the indirect jobs -- I'll give you an example -- Pearson Airport, that's it my riding, they would basically have to shut it down if they cut this off," said Ford. "Not to mention how its supports other regions, be it Michigan, or other states. And we're making the line a lot safer as well."
Whitmer has revoked the 67-year-old easement allowing Line 5 to operate under the Straits of Mackinac. Enbridge has said the State’s action violates federal law and it has no intention of shutting the line down.
"I just do not understand what Governor Whitmer is thinking," said Ford. "I know Bob Bailey is working around the clock as well, with his counterparts in the US, but it's a full-court press. And I've mentioned this to the prime minister -- myself, Jason Kenny, other premiers numerous, numerous times -- we need the feds fighting for us."
Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley took part in a conference call with Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources, Seamus O’Regan Tuesday afternoon.
-With files from Sue Storr