Political

An improved roadmap of northern Alberta includes better emergency exits during wildfires, UCP says

Posted on: Staff Writer

By George Lee, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Improved economic corridors and emergency routes will eventually remap the way drivers navigate the north, the legislature heard during a week that saw UCP faithful emphasize spending beyond Alberta’s major centres. Andrew Boitchenko, the member for Drayton Valley-Devon, highlighted $311 million for emergency routes in Alberta. He also spoke of further spending on a … Read more…

Wilkinson says Canada should not scrap climate policies to appease oil and gas executives

Posted on: Staff Writer

By John Woodside, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter The fossil fuel industry’s call to roll back environmental policy at a time of economic crisis will hurt Canadians in the long run, Energy and Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson told the executives of Canada’s largest oil and gas companies Thursday. “It is disappointing to see the CEOs of major Canadian energy companies  seemingly … Read more…

Feds urged to act now to develop economic corridors

Posted on: Staff Writer

By George Lee, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter A Canada united by economic corridors operating coast-to-coast-to-coast would pay dividends to rural and remote Alberta, a UCP cabinet minister said Friday from Quebec City. But Devin Dreeshen added that his vision needs action from the federal government to foster cross-country cooperation and correct past and ongoing wrongs. Attending a conference of provincial and … Read more…

Health care, schools and roads top capital spending as more bucks flow to Alberta’s regions

Posted on: Staff Writer

By George Lee, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Capital projects – the stuff you can see, touch, use repeatedly, walk through or even drive upon — will account for $26.1 billion in provincial spending over the next three years, the Alberta government estimates in a deficit budget released last Thursday. For regions beyond the two major cities, the question is, How many … Read more…

Society’s compassion and support for domestic abuse survivors spans 25 years, legislature hears

Posted on: Staff Writer

By George Lee, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Domestic abuse survivors across southern Alberta benefit from the life-changing shelter and support offered by Rowan House Society, the legislature heard as the group geared up for a March fundraiser. Chelsae Petrovic, the member for Livingstone-Macleod, celebrated the organization’s 25th anniversary in a statement to colleagues in Edmonton, highlighting the High River group’s humble … Read more…

Province puts corporate pals ahead of pregnant women, NDP critic says

Posted on: Staff Writer

By George Lee, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter A government serving corporate friends over everyday Albertans is putting pregnant women and their babies at unacceptable risk — especially those in rural and remote areas — an NDP shadow minister has charged. Rural hospital closures and doctor shortages are forcing pregnant women to travel hours for care and overwhelming health services in major … Read more…