Question Period Note: Manitoba-Minnesota Transmission Project

• The government approved the Manitoba-Minnesota Transmission Project after considering National Energy Board’s assessment.
• This project will increase exports of clean power that will help U.S. states transition away from coal.
• The project will also support the economy by generating investment and clean jobs in Manitoba.
• This assessment followed nine months of extra consultation with Indigenous groups.
• The government is aware of the legal action related to the Project, but cannot specifically comment on matters being considered by the court.
• The government is also aware of the Manitoba Métis Federation’s filings with the Canada Energy Regulator (CER). The CER is an independent, arm’s length regulator, and is responsible for ensuring this matter is addressed appropriately.

This project will result in the construction of a new transmission line that will allow Manitoba to export more electricity to Minnesota. Both federal and provincial approvals have been received and construction has begun. Four Indigenous groups have filed for judicial review of the Governor in Council’s approval of the project, citing inadequate consultation and accommodation. In addition, the Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) filed a letter with the Canada Energy Regulator (CER) in July 2019, alleging that the proponent is not compliant with several project conditions. There is no timeline for the CER to make a decision on the MMF filings. The Department of Justice has recommended that Canada not comment on this matter while it is before the CER.

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