Activists took to the streets of Montreal Sunday for a 16-kilometre march through the city to protest Enbridge’s Line 9 pipeline.
Line 9, which runs parallel to highway 401 between Sarnia, Ont., and Montreal, is a 40-year-old pipeline that transports crude from Alberta through Southern Ontario.
The oil is then shipped to foreign markets – something the National Energy Board gave approval for in 2014.
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According to Enbridge, the pipeline operator, it’s capable of moving 300,000 barrels a day.
Demonstrators said they’re worried about the impact the pipeline can have on Montreal and surrounding areas.
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According to protesters, the pipeline crosses many of Canada’s critical waterways and they argue that all it takes is one spill to paralyze almost all of Montreal’s pumping stations.
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“If there’s a spill, it’s going to be apocalyptic,” said activist Marc-André Toupin. “I really hope people start realizing that.”
In a statement to Global News, Enbridge said it recognizes the rights of individuals and groups to express their views and welcomes a dialogue with activists.
“Enbridge is looking to be part of the conversation on how Canada can transition to a lower carbon future. Everyone needs the energy we deliver, natural gas, renewables and oil. We all rely on it for our daily lives and it is our responsibility to provide all these forms of energy – and to do it responsibly and safely,” the company said.
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