CALGARY, ALBERTA--(Marketwire - March 18, 2013) - The Energy Policy Institute of Canada applauds the Harper Government's announcement Monday regarding the enhanced Tanker Safety System for B.C.'s northern coast.

"This is an important process that will address the concerns of B.C. residents, worried about the potential for oil spills as a result of increased tanker traffic, by developing world-class monitoring systems and building the trust needed to pursue a cross country strategy towards energy development and leadership."

Increasing emergency detection and response capabilities ahead of potential project approvals speaks to the importance the federal government places on protecting Canada's landscape and shorelines while pursuing alternative markets for our energy products.

Daniel Gagnier, President

Energy Policy Institute of Canada