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Though Energy East was the focus of Mulroney’s speech, he said other proposals, like Kinder Morgan’s Trans Mountain expansion to the Vancouver area, must go ahead.

The NEB has recommended Ottawa approve Trans Mountain, which also faces still opposition from local communities, and a decision is expected later this year.

Trudeau should make breaking the logjam a priority, said Mulroney, who was the Progressive Conservative prime minister from 1984 until 1993.

“This is the big-ticket item for him right now because the prosperity is staring us in the face.”

When asked whether he believes Trudeau will take that advice, Mulroney said: “We’re going to find out.”

He also waded into the debate over screening newcomers for “anti-Canadian values,” saying he sees no need to toughen the immigration process as one Conservative leadership contender is suggesting.

Ontario MP Kellie Leitch has floated the idea of applying such a test to potential immigrants as a way to make sure their views on issues like gender equality are aligned with Canadian values.

But Mulroney said that’s unnecessary.

“We have a good process now. People don’t just walk in the front door here,” he told reporters.

“They have to meet certain criteria and I think if they meet those criteria, that should be OK.”

Mulroney also diplomatically waded into U.S. politics, where immigration has also been a hot-button issue.

“This is a most unusual choice that Americans have to make.”