Fire chief should testify about pipeline safety: councillor

The National Energy Board should subpoena the Saint John fire chief to address the safety of a proposed natural gas pipeline through the city, a councillor said Friday.

Ivan Court said it's the only way the regulator can determine ifthe pipeline issafe. Hearings on the proposal are currently underway in Saint John.

Last week, the council voted to supportrunning apipeline through the city, reversing an earlier endorsement that called for it to run under the Bay of Fundy.

Court voted against the motion to endorse the land route. He said the NEB can only answer all of its questions on fire safety if Chief Rob Simonds is forced to testify.

"[The council endorsement] was a political decision," said Court. "The fire chief is responsible for health and safety, and has concerns."

Chief's latest report saidworries had been resolved

Simonds had issued a report thathad expressed concerns about the safety of a land-based route, which would pass through Rockwood Park, residential neighbourhoods, and near schools and industrial facilities.

However, the chief submitted a follow-up report saying most of his concerns had been answered by the company.

Laurie Smith, the lawyer for the company that would build the pipeline, said it's inappropriate to subpoena the fire chief.

"The City of Saint John is not on trial here," she said.

The National Energy Board has has reserved decision on Councillor Court's motion.