Enbridge Line 9, an eastbound pipeline reversal that could see tar-sands crude pumped to Quebec and the Atlantic coast.

Harper's 2012 budget bill, called C-38, replaced the entire Environmental Assessment Act in order to "streamline" approval of major oil and gas pipelines. The 2011 budget slashed funding for Environment Canada by over $222m (£140m), with cuts specifically to departments dealing with climate change, clean air, waste management and water resources.

"The environment assessment regime put in place in the past year would be a laughing stock in a developing country," said May. "We have a government that is less concerned about climate than the CEOs of major oil companies."

Canada has increasingly "harmonised" its energy and climate policy with the US, and in Copenhagen followed it on a non-binding agreement togame regardless of the score."

Crosby's first goal of the game was perhaps his best of the night. Pittsburgh already led the game 4-0 with about 11 minutes remaining in the second period. Defender Brian Dumoulin attempted a shot for the home squad from the left side. The puck went flying toward Crosby, who was standing in front of the goal. The two-time Hart Memorial Trophy winner decided to raise his stick and swing it in front of his body, whacking it past Flyers net minder Brian Elliott and into the far side of the net.

"Sid the Kid" added his second goal with 12:19 remaining in the third period. He scored again three minutes later, giving the Penguins their final goal. Crosby also had a redirect from Dumoulin on