'I hope this works,' Sask. premier says of Trans Mountain deal

Saskatchewan's premier says he is "cautiously optimistic" andhopeful Ottawa's plan topurchasethe Trans Mountain pipelinefor $4.5 billion works.

Scott Moe has been outspoken about wanting to seethe proposed expansion of the pipeline built, saying not completing the project carries an economic impact to Saskatchewan

"I hope this works," Moe told reporters on Tuesday.

"Thisisn't likely the way that I would have went about it, you know, I think,nationalizing this piece ofinfrastructure."

According to the government,the lack of access to tidewater cost provincialoil producers an estimated $2.6 billion and cost the province an estimated $210 million in taxes, royalties and other revenue in 2017.

'Last choice'

Moe called the move from Ottawa "a last choice." He said there are other means the federal government could use, such as restricting infrastructure payments to B.C., which Moe believes Ottawa should do.

He expressed concern about what potential message the purchase sends to investors, saying Ottawa paid Kinder Morgan to effectively leave.

"What has changed? We have a different proponent on the pipeline ... as far as the regulatory environment with respect to ensuring this pipeline is built, what has changed?" said Moe.

He pointed to B.C. premier John Horgan's comments on the project as well as what he says is a lack of a construction plan.

"We still don't see shovels in the ground. We've seen anannouncementhere this morning, we need shovels in the ground, we need construction to start on this piece ofinfrastructure," Moe said.

"I hope this starts to narrowthe differential. I hope this is beneficial to the Saskatchewan price we get for our energy commodities."

Moe said that unlike Alberta, his government will not shelve legislation to restrict energy exports to B.C.and intends to pass it, with only days left in session.

Despite his vocal support for the project, Moe said Saskatchewan will not pick up the tab forany construction costs because the project carries Alberta oil. He said now every Canadian is paying for it.

Saskatchewan NDPleader Ryan Meilialso expressed optimism, and said the federal government took leadership on the matter.

He did not, however, support the call to restrict federal infrastructure dollars to B.C.