CER Response to B.C. Flooding – December 3, 2021 Update

An environmental protection inspection officer oversees installation of a temporary bridge by Trans Mountain.

December 3, 2021

We are focused on providing safety and environmental oversight as the effects of the flooding in B.C. continue to impact CER-regulated infrastructure. There have been no injuries or releases associated with our regulated infrastructure reported because of the floods.

The Trans Mountain Pipeline remains shut down as a precautionary measure to ensure pipeline safety until potential impacts can be assessed and mitigated. The Enbridge 30-inch mainline is currently isolated in two sub-segments as a precaution while assessments are made.

We are overseeing company responses and reviewing information from companies as they work on their return to service plans. Our priority is the safety of people and protection of the environment. We will only allow the pipelines to restart once we assess that it can be done safely.

We are also grateful for our work with Indigenous Monitors. Over the past couple of years, our Indigenous Monitoring Program has helped to strengthen our safety and environmental oversight to prevent harm, help protect Indigenous interests and build relationships. These relationships are especially important in times of emergency like this one.

“Our inspectors and an Indigenous Monitor from the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committee for the Trans Mountain Expansion remain on the ground in flood-impacted areas,” said Gitane De Silva, Chief Executive Officer of the CER. “Safety is our number one priority. Our expert staff on the CER’s Pipeline Integrity Task Force and others continue to work with regulated-companies as they progress towards a restart once it is safe to do so.”

Along with government partners and regulated companies, the CER is continuing to monitor all aspects of the situation, including the potential impacts of current and forecasted weather conditions and energy supply impacts.

Date modified: