The destructiveness of the tar sands is not inevitable. But Canadians and Albertans have become too tolerant of the politicians who compromise the nation's energy security as well as the next generation's future.

The tar sands has changed Canada in the same way the fur trade has changed Canada.

When you start to think about energy security, you must discuss global energy security, because there is no other type.

We've started working out systemic long-term measures for strengthening energy security, as set down in the presidential decree of 27 December 2005, which envisages an integrated approach to this issue.

Energy is an issue of national security in which governments, and the state companies that they have established, are likely to be involved for a long time.

The price hike comes as crude oil costs continue to climb on energy security woes involving Iran and Nigeria. In fact, crude oil was trading above $65 per barrel this week - a level not seen since the hurricanes of 2005.