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The federal government is willing to “provide indemnity” to any investors, be they the project’s original architects or otherwise, to ensure the controversial project is able to proceed, Morneau told reporters in Ottawa on Wednesday.

“We are willing to indemnify the Trans Mountain expansion against unnecessary delays that are politically motivated,” he said.

Photo by Shaughn Butts / Postmedia

Notley welcomed the move and called it an important step.

“I am confident solutions will be found that allow for construction to resume on schedule this summer,” she said. “There are a number of different leverage points in what is a very complex negotiation.”

Both news conferences coincided with Kinder Morgan’s annual meeting in Calgary, which drew nearly 100 pro-pipeline supporters.

Chairman and CEO Steve Kean acknowledged Morneau’s comments Wednesday as he reiterated the company’s position.

“We remain steadfast in our previously stated principles: clarity on the path forward, particularly with respect to the ability to construct through British Columbia, and ensuring adequate protection of our KML shareholders,” Kean said.

“While discussions are ongoing, we are not yet in alignment and will not negotiate in public.”

‘Ignoring the risks’

B.C. Premier John Horgan has vowed his government would use every tool at its disposal to block the pipeline, citing environmental concerns.

“The federal finance minister is trying to use our government as an excuse, as the federal government puts taxpayer money on the line to backstop risks to private investors, while completely ignoring the risks to B.C.,” he said in a statement Wednesday.