Leading Climate Scientist Sues National Energy Board over Pipeline Process

Calls for accountability, transparency, and respect for Canadians

VANCOUVER, Aug. 15, 2014 /CNW/ - A leading climate scientist is asking the National Energy Board to reconsider its decision to refuse to consider climate change when deciding pipeline expansion. His challenge is based on section 7 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms which guarantees everyone "life, liberty and security of the person".

Dr. Danny Harvey, Professor in the Department of Geography at the University of Toronto, filed a Charter challenge after the National Energy Board refused to hear scientific evidence on climate change during hearings on the Trans Mountain pipeline Expansion Project.  In 2013, the National Energy Board determined that it would not consider tar sands expansion or climate change when reviewing the proposed pipeline expansion.

"The Trans Mountain Expansion Project will lead to tar sand expansion, increase climate change and put future generations of Canadians at risk.  Expanding tar sand operations by increasing pipeline capacity is not just irresponsible – it's dangerous," said Harvey.

The scientific evidence indicates that the earth's climate is warming, and nearly all temperature increases since 1950 have been exclusively due to human activity.  Burning fossil fuels has been the main contributor to temperature increases.  A further, small increase of 2-3°C could pose a significant threat to human life and health by increasing the risk of disease and death from insect‑borne diseases, heat‑related health effects, fire, insufficient, excessive, or compromised water, and famine.

"The National Energy Board has to consider the evidence and the impact that this Project will have not only on the health and lives of our generation but even more importantly on future generations.", said Harvey

"The Charter guarantees that the government will not unjustifiably deprive Canadians of their health and well-being. Today protection of the environment is the most important frontier for ensuring this guarantee is meaningful. That's why the National Energy Board must absolutely consider these issues before it makes any decision about this proposed pipeline expansion" says Joseph J. Arvay, Q.C, legal counsel for Harvey.

SOURCE: Mr. Danny Harvey

For more information or copy of legal documents filed contact:Sarbjit Kaur, 416-274-5324, [email protected]