Three members of the National Energy Board panel reviewing the Energy East project have stepped down.
The news comes amid questions surrounding meetings which took place in Quebec in 2015.
Media reports indicate panel members spoke to a Trans-Canada consultant about the pipeline project at those meetings.
Now, it means the process is suspended until a new panel is chosen.
#EnergyEast Hearing Panel steps down. Hearing adjourned until new Panel appointed. https://t.co/5j2NfJzoHE
— NEB Canada (@NEBCanada) September 9, 2016
The panel members decided to recuse themselves in order to preserve the integrity of the National Energy Board and of the Energy East review.
A statement on their website says the members acted in good faith and have pledged not to discuss the application with other board members or staff.
Wow, the whole National Energy Board panel has resigned en masse.
— Nelson Bennett (@nbennett_biv) September 9, 2016
It goes on to say once a new panel is appointed, the review of the Energy East project application can and will proceed.
Stunning news! All 3 panelists fm #NEB #EnergyEast hearing step down. Hearings adjourned. #GPC #climate
— Elizabeth May (@ElizabethMay) September 9, 2016
In a statement, TransCanada says they accept the NEB’s decision and look forward to the sessions resuming and a constructive dialogue with Canadians about Energy East.
The process began in Saint John, New Brunswick peacefully in August but it fell apart when the hearing hit Montreal and were interrupted by loud protesters.
To read the full statement, click here.
