Minister of Energy, Mines and Natural Gas Rich Coleman has issued the following statement:

"British Columbia's aspiration to build a liquefied natural gas (LNG) export industry took another step forward yesterday with the National Energy Board approving an export licence for LNG Canada.

"LNG Canada is a large natural gas export proposal by Shell and their joint venture partners: KOGAS, Mitsubishi and PetroChina. The economic prospects of this facility are significant and will create thousands of jobs for British Columbians.

"Export approval for this facility supports the BC Jobs Plan by opening up our natural gas sector to new markets.

"Our government's strategy for LNG development is helping industry realize the market potential of B.C.'s liquefied natural gas. We look forward to the continued development of LNG Canada and the benefits it will bring to our province, including many new, long-term jobs."

Contact:

Sandra Steilo
Media Relations
Ministry of Energy, Mines and Natural Gas
250 952-0617