Minister of Natural Gas Development Rich Coleman has issued the following statement following TransCanada Corporation's successful mainline Open Season process:

“British Columbia welcomes today’s news that TransCanada has announced a positive conclusion to its most recent open season to transport natural gas east on the Canadian Mainline to Southern Ontario.

“This development will create approximately 6,000 jobs in Western Canada. This will allow many British Columbians to support their families and will provide the province with millions of dollars in revenue for services like health care and education. This long-term access for natural gas will also mean millions of dollars of investment in northeast British Columbia.

“British Columbia’s natural gas is an environmentally responsible choice for Canadian consumers, utilities and businesses and it means Canadians will be supplying Canadians with their natural gas supply. 

“We remain committed to reaching potential markets that will create benefits, such as jobs and investment at home. This includes retaining and increasing our traditional markets in North America, developing access to Asia through a liquefied natural gas export industry, and supporting value-added opportunities for our abundant resources.

“It was nice to see the see the level of cooperation between gas producers and TransCanada to establish a competitive toll structure that will ensure B.C. natural gas can be delivered to Eastern Canada at a competitive cost.  

“Today truly marks a significant step in the long-term supply of clean B.C. natural gas to the Canadian marketplace.”