By Canadian Press

Ecojustice Challenged

Judge dismisses attempt to quash ‘anti-Alberta’ activities inquiry

May 14, 2021 | 1:13 PM

A judge has dismissed an attempt to quash the United Conservative government’s inquiry into whether foreign groups have conspired against Alberta’s oil industry.

Court of Queen’s Bench Justice Karen Horner says the environmental law firm Ecojustice failed to prove the inquiry was called to intimidate charities that have raised concerns about the industry.

She also says there’s no reason to believe that the political context around the inquiry suggests it’s biased.

The provincial government and some industry leaders have said Canadian environmental charities that accept U.S. funding are part of a plot against Alberta’s energy industry.

The province has said the plot aims to block pipelines and landlock Alberta’s oil to benefit its American competitors.

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Legal scholars and non-profit groups say the inquiry is an attempt to bully and silence industry critics.

The inquiry’s final report, already delayed, is due May 31.