Trans Mountain pipeline expansion work suspended

CALGARY — Kinder Morgan says it is suspending all non-essential activities and related spending on its controversial Trans Mountain pipeline expansion project that would nearly triple the flow of oil from Canada’s oil sands to the Pacific Coast.

The company said Sunday its decision is based on the British Columbia government’s opposition to the project, which has also been the focus of sustained protests at Kinder Morgan’s marine terminal in Burnaby, British Columbia.

Kinder Morgan says it will consult with “various stakeholders” to try to reach an agreement by May 31 that might allow the project to proceed.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has insisted the project should be completed despite the angry protests and the British Columbia government’s continued battle against it in the courts.