Comptroller Stringer Calls On TC Energy to Stop Ongoing Construction of Keystone XL Pipeline Amid COVID-19 Pandemic
Letter urges TC Energy to prioritize the health of workers, indigenous communities, and residents living in proximity to construction sites
(New York, NY) – New York City Comptroller Scott M. Stringer sent a letter to TC Energy President and CEO Russ Girling calling for a stop to construction of the Keystone XL crude oil pipeline that puts vulnerable communities at risk, including its own workers, amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Citing reports that TC Energy was transporting pipeline workers and their families from across the country to pipeline construction sites last month, Comptroller Stringer denounced TC Energy’s decision to continue construction as these sites could become vectors for infection endangering workers, surrounding communities, and local indigenous groups.
“We are in the middle of a global public health crisis, and there is no reason to prioritize the construction of this pipeline over people’s lives. People come first, and we must do everything in our power to protect the health and safety of our workers, families, neighbors, and communities,” said Comptroller Stringer. “Millions of people are sheltering in place and forgoing their daily routines to help flatten the curve. It is simply unconscionable that TC Energy would risk the spread of COVID-19 to its own workers, to residents of rural communities, and to indigenous communities living in close proximity to active construction sites.”
In his letter, the Comptroller emphasized that there is no compelling reason to prioritize construction of this crude oil pipeline during the ongoing pandemic, especially given the sharp drop in oil consumption and demand. Comptroller Stringer castigated TC Energy’s choice to put its bottom line over its own workers and vulnerable communities, cautioning that TC Energy’s decision to continue construction may expose TC Energy to severe reputational and financial risk as well as legal liability that would jeopardize the long term viability of the company. Already, the pipeline has faced regulatory barriers and credit downgrades for the $13 billion oil pipeline.
To read Comptroller Stringer’s letter to TC Energy President and CEO Russ Girling, click here.
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