Once again, with great disappointment, TO350 responds to the news that the TMX has been green-lighted by the federal government. 

Before Christmas, pro-pipeline protesters gathered in Alberta, worried about their jobs and their families. The week before, I was at a protest in Toronto opposing a pipeline in British Columbia, because I’m worried about the climate and my family (especially my 4-year-old child). Both pro and anti-pipeline protests have continued into 2019. Recently, the urgency of these protests seems to have slowed down a little bit -- perhaps because of a slight uptick in the price of oil on international markets, something that is actually pretty much beyond the control of the Canadian government.  

Remarks delivered by Trudeau at a Liberal Climate Action Rally in Toronto on March 4th, were partly geared toward pressuring provinces that are resisting federal climate plans. Trudeau stated that climate change leaves us without any time to spare, that pollution should be paid for and that we are still waiting for a climate plan from the federal conservatives.

However, the contradiction between the existing government's climate plans and their continued support for fossil fuel extraction, prompted groups concerned about effective climate action and Indigenous rights to gather outside, in front of the Danforth Music Hall. The event was advertised for 6-8 and despite a temperature of -9 with wind chill, about two dozen protesters arrived in advance of six pm.

In August 2018, when the Federal Court of Appeal ruled that the review of the Trans Mountain Expansion (TMX) fell short and overturned its approval, many of us felt an upsurge of hope. The National Energy Board (NEB) had a do-over - another chance to apply a thorough climate test, spare the Southern Resident Orcas greater existential stress, and protect the coast from the heightened chance of a bitumen spill. Canada also had another opportunity to honestly consult and seek consent from the First Nations who’s lives and lands the TMX impacts.

Picture of OEB Consultation taken by Liz Lott - an incredible North Bay photographer!

So, you’re wondering what these “Energy East Application Parties” are all about? Well, we’ve got the answers for you below – along with five reasons why we hope that you’ll get involved today. Fill out our form to take the pledge to either host an Energy East Application Party with your climate-conscious friends, or join us at one of our events taking place between February 3 – March 3.