Those calling for Prime Minister Mark Carney to tax or restrict energy exports to the U.S. as a weapon in the ongoing tariff war should explain the consequences if we do.

If, for example, we put an energy tax on our oil exports to the U.S., what will we do if the Americans shut down Enbridge’s Line 5 pipeline in retaliation?

GOLDSTEIN: Expect retaliation if we weaponize our energy exports to the U.S. Back to video

The 1,038-km pipeline transports 540,000 barrels of light crude oil and natural gas liquids daily from Alberta to refineries in Ontario and Quebec, by way of Wisconsin and Michigan.

Shutting it down would create an immediate oil crisis in Ontario and Quebec, since Line 5 supplies roughly half of the oil used in both provinces.

Enbridge warns closing Line 5, which connects Alberta and Saskatchewan energy producers to vital markets in central Canada, would cost thousands of Canadian jobs, hike the price of gasoline, increase the cost of living and over time result in the elimination of thousands of products Canadians rely on every day.

Risking U.S. retaliatory........

© Edmonton Sun