Anglican bishops in B.C. and the Yukon are calling on the Northern Gateway pipeline hearings to demonstrate integrity, fairness, and freedom from political pressure.
Six bishops signed the statement issued on Good Friday.
They say comments by federal officials have raised concerns that the National Energy Board hearings may be subject to improper time constraints and industry influence.
Specifically, they refer to an announcement by the federal government to speed up approvals for major resource projects, like the pipeline.
The bishops say the board's final report must command wide public support if it wants to remain credible.
The proposed pipeline would carry oil from the Edmonton area to Kitimat, B.C., where it would be shipped overseas
