Regulation Change Provides for Fairness

The Department of the Environment announced today a regulation change regarding natural gas pipelines in municipal areas.

The change will treat gas utilities like other utilities when pipes are installed underground in cities, towns and villages.

Currently, utilities like water and telephone services don't have to conduct an environmental assessment before installing underground pipes or cables.

"Gas utilities should be treated the same way as other utilities," said acting Environment Minister Michael Baker. "This regulation change provides fair treatment to utilities."

The Department of the Environment doesn't believe these projects cause significant environmental effects. Experience shows the impact is not significant in areas that have already been disturbed for similar uses.

If a pipeline is planned that will alter a watercourse, or the disposal of acid-generating rock is proposed, approval from the Department of the Environment will be required.

This change will apply to the lower pressure distribution portion of gas utility pipelines which directly services cities, town and other communities.