Article content continued

The decision was hailed by some politicians in Quebec, notably Montreal Mayor Denis Coderre. But Fournier said the project had not even made it to the point of being considered under the seven principles the Quebec government had laid out for pipelines.

The celebratory reaction of some Quebeckers to the end of Energy East has become fodder in the leadership race at Alberta’s new United Conservative Party. Candidates Jason Kenney and Brian Jean have taken aim at Quebec politicians over the issue and both have doubled down on their call for changes to the federal equalization program in response.

At a campaign event Tuesday, Jean — who has attacked Quebec Premier Philipe Couillard as a hypocrite — made no apologies for his approach.

“I believe the people of Alberta have been treated like a second-class citizen under Confederation for some period of time in relation to the money we earn here and where it’s distributed,” he said.

“We’re a fair neighbour … but they do take advantage of it.”

Fournier said in his letter that there is significant misinformation being spread about equalization.

He called for “a dialogue in a spirt of respect and trust” between the two provinces, with greater communication not only between governments but also between civil society, business and individuals.

“Our interests will inevitably occasionally diverge but we can refuse to turn into adversaries. We are already partners. Why not develop mechanisms to broaden our partnerships?

“We must engage in reconciliation.”

Cheryl Oates, press secretary for Premier Rachel Notley, said Alberta is open to increased dialogue between the two provinces, but the NDP government already has a strong relationship with the Quebec government, despite disagreeing on certain issues.

She said there were numerous “headwinds” facing Energy East and “Quebec was not responsible solely for its cancellation.”

jwood@postmedia.com