Merchant Law Group launches $75-million class action after Alberta oil spill

Merchant Law Group LLP has launched a $75-million class action lawsuit against Plains Midstream Canada ULC in connection with the oil spill near Sundre, Alberta that occurred in early June 2012.

Approximately 475,000 litres of sour crude oil leaked into Jackson Creek near Sundre, the Merchant Law Group says in an online statement announcing the lawsuit. “The lawsuit will seek compensation for damages incurred by those living and working in the area of the spill who have been negatively impacted by the event.”

The allegations have not been proven in court.

The company has issued 14 information updates on the clean-up operation since June 9. The most recent noted that 279 response personnel were on site on June 22, and that more than 28,000 work hours have supported the clean-up effort thus far. A nearby trout pond, a refuge for birds and waterfowl in the area, had been closed as part of the clean-up efforts.