The Globe and Mail reports in its Saturday edition that a third quarter earnings preview report from CIBC World Markets said progress on the Pacific Link pipeline is one of the most important developments for the energy sector. A Canadian Press dispatch to The Globe reports that in addition to the national-interest designation, CIBC analysts pointed to legislation aimed at streamlining project approvals, which is currently before Parliament. Ottawa has also recently announced a tax incentive that would allow companies to immediately deduct most investments. "While constructive, we believe additional policy support is still required before producers materially accelerate their growth plans," the CIBC analysts wrote. Producers are awaiting details on Alberta's plans for royalty incentives aimed at boosting production. The reports said: "Importantly, capital allocation priorities have not fundamentally changed. Across management teams, shareholder returns and balance sheet strength remain the primary use of free cash flow. However, compared with the beginning of the quarter, discussions around production growth, brownfield expansions, project readiness and future egress requirements have become noticeably more frequent."