TORONTO (Standard & Poor's) Nov. 4, 2005--Standard & Poor's Ratings Services today said its ratings and outlook on Alberta-based AltaLink L.P. (AltaLink; A-/Stable/--) are not affected by proposed changes to the company's ownership structure. AltaLink is wholly owned by AltaLink Investments L.P. (AILP). SNC-Lavalin Group Inc. (BBB/Positive/--) and Macquarie Essential Assets Partnership (unrated) have agreed to increase their respective indirect ownership stakes in AILP to about 77% and 23% from 50% and 15%. Pending approval by the Alberta Energy and Utilities Board, Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan Board (25%) and Trans-Elect Inc. (10%) continue to hold their existing indirect ownership interest in AILP. The proposed change from four unitholders to two, and the future presence of a majority owner do not
