Washington DC (June 3, 2011) – Representative Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), top Democrat on the Natural Resources Committee, released the following statement upon announcement by the Department of Transportation of the shutdown of the TransCanada Keystone pipeline.

“The administration is right to order the continued shutdown off the TransCanada Keystone pipeline until regulators can ensure the pipeline’s safety. TransCanada needs to ensure the pipeline is safe, secure and can operate without the risk of future leaks. After a series of serious pipeline safety accidents in the past two years, this shutdown raises concerns about the adequacy of industry’s inspection and maintenance of the pipelines that deliver the oil and gas Americans rely on.

“Additionally, these concerns need to be fully addressed as the administration and State Department evaluate the Keystone XL expansion project.

“Congress should immediately hold oversight hearings on the safety of pipeline infrastructure, and I will continue to monitor this situation closely.”

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