There's no doubt some would prefer there be no pipeline expansion. But an equal number would prefer there be twice as many, with tankers wending their way through the Douglas Channel in B.C.

So the job of government in a complex federation is to thread through the various competing interests. To find a middle path that serves the greater public good, in the best way possible.

In this case, the middle path is to steadily, measurably reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across Canada, in keeping with our Paris targets, via a national price on carbon - while at the same time ensuring our workers are protected and economy healthy, with proper consultations and environmental safeguards in place.

That is the strategy of the Trudeau government. It has been PM Justin Trudeau's strategy, alongside greater tax fairness for the middle class, since as far back as 2012. He has spoken about it in all parts of the country, for years.

The alternative is a carbon-reduction regime that might look more aggressive short-term, but is politically unsustainable - because the ensuing economic shocks cause climate-regressive politicians to get elected. Or for government to stick its head in the sand and do nothing, as the Scheer Conservatives seem determined to do.

With greatest respect to those who disagree, neither of those poles seems viable to me. The middle path does.

Michael Den Tandt, Owen Sound

Michael Den Tandt is the candidate for the Liberal Party of Canada in Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound