I cannot help but wonder when watching the news why I would see a number of union banners and flags from various trade unions at recent BC protests against the pipeline. Those in attendance have vowed to block bulldozers during construction and are openly suggesting acts of civil disobedience are necessary. What is puzzling is the fact that the pipeline, if built, would provide thousands of well paid jobs. Any pipeline is not without its environmental risks. This most certainly needs to be debated and all considerations for the environment need to be taken into account. However I don’t think Canadians are willing to accept violence and destruction of equipment. For those building the pipeline, the security challenges will be considerable. Robust contingency plans will need to be in place to deal with the activists threatening to stop the project. Protests at corporate offices as well as at construction sites will no doubt be an issue. Plans will also need to be put in place to protect contractors and assets while in the field against acts of violence. Will we see repeated attempts to damage the pipeline once various phases are completed? XL and Keystone Pipelines present a tremendous opportunity for the Canada’s economy. Will we be faced with violent protests like those in Brazil, where buildings and buses were burned by protesters during construction of a dam?