Questions whether TC Energy should continue to operate pipeline if it cannot do so safely
Boston (November 1, 2019) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) today demanded answers from TC Energy, owner of the Keystone Pipeline, about a 383,000-gallon crude oil spill in North Dakota, the 4th major spill since the pipeline began operation in 2010. The Keystone Pipeline pumps tar sands oil – from Alberta, Canada to Nebraska. North Dakota environmental regulators reported they were notified of the most recent leak late on October 29, and the cause is still under investigation. In his letter, Senator Markey expresses concerns that TC Energy appears to be acting negligently in allowing these repeated spills to occur, and in failing to prevent further spills. Also, this week, more than 9,000 barrels of oil spilled from a leak in the Keystone Pipeline in Edinburg, North Dakota.
“These recurring pipeline incidents call into question whether TC Energy should continue to operate this pipeline if it cannot do so safely,” writes Senator Markey in his letter to TC Energy President and CEO Russel Girling. “They further call into question President Trump’s March 2019 decision to promote the pipeline’s expansion by granting permission for the construction of Keystone XL. That decision flies in the face of the climate crisis and — as is becoming increasingly clear — public safety and acceptable operating practices.”
A copy of Senator Markey’s letter can be found HERE.
In his letter, Senator Markey requests answers to questions that include:
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