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Profile: Danielle Smith

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Letter: The Wyant Report – What the UCP tried to bury

Written on . Posted in Civic & Government.

Letter: The Wyant Report – What the UCP tried to bury

Hon. Peter Guthrie, MLA for Airdrie-Cochrane

October 20, 2025

Dear Albertans,

After immense public pressure and months of denial, the Danielle Smith led UCP government was left with no choice but to initiate an investigation into government misconduct within Alberta Health Services. But instead of calling a full and independent public inquiry, they opted to hire an out-of-province judge to conduct a limited, controlled process – an inquiry designed not to expose the truth, but to contain it.

The result? Justice Raymond Wyant’s report delivers anything but the exoneration this government was counting on. In fact, it reveals deep systemic failures, conflicts of interest, and a disturbing pattern of concealment, misdirection, and political interference.

My Decision to Step Down

My own experience in Cabinet reflects the same patterns that Justice Wyant later described.

On Feb. 25, 2025, I resigned as Minister of Infrastructure, in part due to concerns that are now reflected in this report. I brought forward troubling information to Cabinet and later tabled it in the Legislature. The report confirms that the Premier’s Office and Ministry of Health were already aware of these issues – long before my intervention.

Rather than take responsibility, the UCP government acted swiftly to limit scrutiny and prevent wrongdoing from coming to light:

  • Firing AHS CEO Athana Mentzelopoulos,
  • Dismissing the entire AHS Board,
  • Removing senior executives, and
  • Expelling me from caucus for requesting a judicial review.

In my opinion, this was a coordinated effort to ensure the truth would not reach the public.

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A Constrained Process by Design

Justice Wyant was frank about the limitations imposed on him (Wyant Report, p.3):

“It had a limited, short and focused timeline.” “Unlike a public inquiry, this investigation did not have the power to subpoena or hear testimony under oath.” “There was a lack of vigorous examination and cross-examination.” “I could not come to conclusions on the credibility of information provided verbally by interviewees.”

Notably, key individuals – including Premier Smith, Minister LaGrange, former Minister Copping, LaGrange’s Chief of Staff Nicole Williams, and all former AHS board members – did not testify.

More than 2.25 million documents were dumped on the investigation, unindexed and unorganized. Wyant even noted that he was left with the impression that on occasions, interviewees were not truthful. (WR,p.4)

He further clarified:

“When I find there was no wrongful interference by any government official… that only means I found no evidence of such, but I am not in a position to make a final and absolute determination.” (WR,p.5)

Effectively, Justice Wyant’s inquiry relied solely on evidence the UCP government were willing to provide.

What the Report Did Reveal

Despite its constraints, the report identified serious governance failures, including:

  • Clear misconduct and conflict of interest violations,
  • Misappropriation of public funds,
  • Political interference in AHS procurement decisions, and
  • A culture of secrecy and evasion at the highest levels of government.

The Tylenol Deal

The government made a $14M upfront payment on a $70M deal for children’s Tylenol – without Health Canada approval or even before awarding the contract to MHCare. Justice Wyant found:

  • The contract was awarded hastily,
  • MHCare/Carver Corporation received favourable treatment,
  • Product specifications were never vetted by AHS and legal counsel did not review the contract,
  • The deal was based on a perception of urgency promoted publicly by the Premier,
  • And a New Jersey-based supplier – believed to be Johnson & Johnson – withdrew mysteriously. And as previously disclosed this was despite offering genuine Tylenol at a lower price.

Wyant’s conclusion was damning:

“Alberta taxpayers have paid a significant price for products that, for a variety of reasons, have not benefitted Albertans.” (WR, p.24)

Despite these findings, Jitendra Prasad, the official at the heart of this procurement scandal and after being placed on administrative leave, was reinstated by the Premier’s Chief of Staff Rob Anderson – just so he could quietly retire without consequence.

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The Surgical Contracts

The misconduct didn’t stop with the Tylenol purchase. The report reveals that AHS was directed by the Minister to immediately:

“extend its Nov. 1, 2022, agreement with Alberta Surgical Group Ltd. to April 30, 2025, with adjustments to procedural volumes and costs.” (WR, p.38)

This directive came from the Minister of Health Adriana LaGrange following activity by a registered lobbyist advocating for contract renewal – a directive that appears politically motivated and undermined AHS independence.

A similarly troubling case surrounds Charter Surgical contracts, where:

  • AHS via Mr. Prasad – falsely claimed no relationship with MHCare,
  • Clear conflicts of interest were not reported or investigated, and
  • Inconsistent vendor contracts raise serious questions about value for money.

A Culture of Concealment

These patterns of concealment permeate across other areas of government spending, including:

  • Hospital and infrastructure contracts,
  • Government grants,
  • Charter schools and the newly approved private education capital funding program, and
  • Crown corporations and recovery centres.

In May 2024, I proposed a “Financial Oversight Committee” – composed of fiscally responsible experienced ministers and deputy ministers – to review high-dollar contracts to ensure value and achieve the best results for Albertans. I presented this idea directly to Premier Smith, Executive Director Rob Anderson, and Chief of Staff Marshall Smith.

After months of suggesting they would act, they rejected the proposal – despite clear evidence of procurement failure.

Wyant’s Recommendations: What Could Have Been

Ironically, several of Wyant’s recommendations mirror reforms I was developing as Minister:

  • A procurement centre of excellence,
  • Standardized contracts with due diligence requirements,
  • Stronger conflict of interest compliance and audit functions, and
  • Renewed whistleblower protections – reforms the UCP had previously considered but disregarded.

These are not new problems. The UCP has known about them for years and refused to act. Premier Smith has openly promoted sole sourcing as a way to “save time,” using it as justification to bypass safeguards.

The problem isn’t necessarily the rules – it’s the refusal to enforce them, the absence of consequences, and a culture that normalizes secrecy.

Where We Go From Here

This report is just the beginning. The forthcoming Auditor General’s investigation and the ongoing RCMP inquiry must continue the work that this government tried to contain. But make no mistake – the Wyant Report was never intended to expose the full truth.

As Justice Wyant clarified:

“my investigation related to Alberta Health Services” (WR, p.40)

He was not tasked with investigating the Department of Health, the Minister, or senior government officials -those at the very heart of these decisions. He had no mandate to probe their actions, relationships, or timelines. That was no accident – it was design.

So, Albertans are left to ask:

  • Did senior officials have pre-existing relationships with Jitendra Prasad, MHCare-Sam Mraiche or their associates?
  • Why was Mr. Prasad allowed to retire quietly instead of facing the consequences of his actions?
  • Why did no current or former ministers testify – not Premier Smith, not Minister LaGrange?
  • Why did the Premier and Minister LaGrange mislead Cabinet about what they knew and when?
  • Why fire those including the AHS CEO and the entire Board – who were clearly trying to recover taxpayer dollars and return value to Albertans?
  • And fundamentally: If you really wanted the truth, why go to such lengths to cover it up?

These are not rhetorical questions – they are matters of public trust. And the UCP is counting on one thing – that Albertans won’t read the report.

They hope that the media cycle will move on, that outrage will fade, and that this carefully staged report – limited in scope, toothless in mandate, and constrained by political design – will be mistaken for accountability.

Alberta deserves leadership that values truth over political convenience – leadership that restores accountability and trust in public service.

It’s time for real answers. And it’s time for a government that doesn’t fear the truth.

Sincerely,

Hon. Peter Guthrie MLA for Airdrie-Cochrane

 

Alberta | AB, Peter Guthrie – Government of Alberta

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ATA rejects mediation, govt eyes ‘other options’ to end strike

Written on . Posted in Alberta.

The Alberta Teachers’ Association has rejected a government proposal to return to classrooms Oct. 20 under an enhanced mediation plan, saying the process excludes student-teacher ratios from discussions.

The walkout, which began Oct. 6, has kept more than 700,000 students out of school for two weeks.

On Oct. 14, the ATA presented a proposal to the Teachers’ Employer Bargaining Association, which represents the government and all 61 public, Catholic and francophone school boards.

It included phased-in student–teacher ratios, a counter to the government’s three per cent annual salary increase offer and new language addressing classroom complexity.

ATA president Jason Schilling said the association expects the government to respond at the bargaining table, not through the media.

The Provincial Bargaining and Compensation Office replied Oct. 16. A letter formally requested enhanced mediation that would have returned teachers and students to classrooms Oct. 20 while negotiations continued with a third-party mediator.

The ATA declined, saying the letter explicitly excluded student-teacher ratios from mediation.

“This limitation undermines any attempt at resolution,” Schilling said during an Oct. 17 press conference. “Teachers will not accept a process designed to avoid the real issues in Alberta’s classrooms; what teachers, students and parents are saying every single day — class sizes are too large and classroom complexity is unmanageable.”

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He said teachers need assurance that classroom conditions will improve and their efforts will be respected and fairly compensated. He cites chronic underfunding, rising class sizes and insufficient support for students with complex needs.

Schilling said teachers will not be intimidated by threats of back-to-work legislation.

“As strong and free Albertans, we will not be intimidated and moved by threats that attempt to force us back to work and away from our principles,” he said. “We are guided by integrity, by our duty to our students, by our conviction that public education in Alberta is worth defending.”

Premier Danielle Smith, Finance Minister Nate Horner and Education and Childcare Minister Demetrios Nicolaides also held a press conference the same day expressing disappointment.

Smith said the province offered raises of 12 to 17 per cent, which would make Alberta teachers the highest paid in Western Canada after taxes, plus the hiring of 3,000 new teachers and 1,500 educational assistants.

“The ATA’s latest offer would have cost taxpayers an additional $2 billion on top of the $2.6 billion that we’ve already committed,” Smith said. “Our province is facing a $6.5-billion budget deficit this year, and we must continue to be responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars.”

She said a strike of this nature would reach the threshold of causing irreparable harm to students’ education after about three weeks and warned the government will consider “other options” to end it.

Nicolaides said students have missed out on learning, sports activities, personal development and social interaction and more.

He reiterated the government’s readiness to hire more staff, combat classroom violence and build additional schools, while urging union leaders to make a decision that prioritizes students’ return to classrooms.

“I’m confident that with the assistance of a third-party mediator, we can reach an amicable resolution to the current impasse and avoid further harm to our kids,” he said.

Alberta | AB, Alberta Education, Alberta Teacher Strike, Education, Nate Horner – Government of Alberta

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Premier mandates wildfire mitigation, land access expansion

Written on . Posted in Civic & Government.

Less wildfire damage throughout the province and improved access to the great outdoors feature prominently in Danielle Smith’s renewed vision for Alberta.

The premier issued new marching orders last week to Forestry and Parks Minister Todd Loewen, directing him to expand efforts to prevent wildfires and reduce their effects. One bullet point is that the minister seek a wildfire agreement with the federal government.

Loewen told the Macleod Gazette that wildfire fighting and prevention are “incredibly important to Albertans,” and so is more access to public lands in a sustainable way.

“Those two things encompass a lot of what’s in the mandate letter, and I think they really resonate well with Albertans,” said Loewen, MLA for Central Peace-Notley in the province’s northwest.

He was one of four ministers to receive new mandate letters Sept. 17. The other affected ministries are jobs, economy, trade and immigration; tourism and sport; and arts, culture and status of women.

The letters come as MLAs prepare to return to the legislature for the fall sitting on Oct. 23.

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Loewen is directed to complete a government plan to advance active forestry management techniques, the mandate letter says. The plan should “maintain the health and biodiversity of Alberta’s forests and provide nature-based solutions for carbon sequestration.”

The premier calls on Loewen to work on an agreement with the federal government to improve wildfire mitigation across federal lands.

She wants the agreement to have a “particular focus” on a strategy for prevention management and response at three national parks in Alberta — Jasper and Banff in the Rocky Mountains, and Waterton on the southern border of the province along the Eastern Slopes.

Two parks surround Alberta municipalities, Loewen noted, which underlines the need for co-operation.

“We want to make sure that we do everything we can to protect (the communities), and we have to work with Parks Canada to get the job done,” he said.

Also worth noting: Parks Canada doesn’t have “quite as much wildfire expertise as we do, because we fight a lot more wildfires than they do.”

The letter emphasizes other areas of wildfire mitigation and risk reduction, like “proactive and strategic” forest harvesting and public education. Smith calls for expansion of the FireSmart program, which shares tools and knowledge with communities, and expansion of a program that funds the creation of fireguards.

When the public thinks of wildfire mitigation, prescribed and controlled burns often come to mind. But the job is more varied and complicated than that, Loewen said, particularly because prescribed burns are riskier than they once were.

“When I became minister, I said, OK, we have to do more controlled burns to see if we can reduce the amount of fuel,” Loewen said.

“But then you’re also destroying habitat. And it didn’t take long to realize, especially with the fire seasons we’ve had over the last three years, that the window of opportunity is very small because you don’t want the fire to escape its boundaries.”

Mechanical clearing of trees is more the standard today. Another strategy is hazardous fuel reduction, which removes highly volatile trees like spruce and pine from areas that put communities at risk.

“Every wildfire that’s burned down a community in Alberta has been a Type 5 wildfire — a treetop-to-treetop fire,” said Loewen.

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The premier wants Loewen to continue developing trails and adding campsites. He’s been directed to keep working on a plan to perhaps triple the number of provincially built campsites to over 900 by 2033.

Not counting the backcountry, the government has about 250 campsites today. If targets are hit, the plan would add 300 by 2027.

“We want people to enjoy our parks,” said Loewen. “I kind of joke about this, but I think there are some people out there who just want us to view our parks with binoculars from a distance, and I don’t think that’s what people want.”

Caring about the wilderness usually comes from being in it. “Out of touch, out of mind,” said Loewen.

In a news release, the UCP government characterized the updated mandates as “focused on growing Alberta’s economy, improving trade and creating jobs.”

Ticking that box in Loewen’s letter is a push for value-added forestry projects. Smith wants him to work with Joseph Schow, the minister of jobs, economy, trade and immigration, to develop a proposal for incentives akin to the existing agri-food tax credit.

The more trees that get turned into products in Alberta, the greater the economic benefit derived from logging, Loewen said.

The mandate letter also identifies free enterprise as having a role in making public lands more accessible.

Loewen is directed to “continue the expansion of trails, campsites and other public land use opportunities by Alberta entrepreneurs and other organizations,” his mandate letter says.

The expansion should include improvements to infrastructure and services in Kananaskis, Canmore, Waiparious Creek, Crowsnest Pass and “other high-traffic recreational areas.”

 

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Alberta | AB, Alberta Environment, Alberta Forestry, Alberta Parks, Banff National Park – Alberta, Canmore – Alberta, Crowsnest Pass – Alberta, Environment, Fire | Wildfire, FireSmart Alberta, Forestry, Jasper National Park – Alberta, Joseph Schow – Government of Alberta, Kananaskis – Alberta, Parks Canada, Shootin’ the Breeze – Alberta, The Macleod Gazette – Alberta, Todd Loewen – Government of Alberta, Waiparious Creek – Alberta, Waterton Lakes National Park – Alberta, Wildfire Prevention

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Education mandate gets mixed review from ATA

Written on . Posted in Civic & Government.

Premier Danielle Smith has directed Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides to fast-track school construction and explore abbreviated teacher certification, drawing mixed reactions from the Alberta Teachers’ Association.

Smith’s Sept. 22 mandate letter tasks Nicolaides with committing $8.6 billion through the Schools Now program to create more than 200,000 new and updated student spaces over seven years. The mandate also emphasizes increasing career education opportunities and creating more pathways for qualified teachers to enter classrooms.

The Alberta Teachers’ Association welcomes some aspects of the mandate but expressed concerns about potential changes to teacher certification requirements.

Teacher certification concerns

ATA President Jason Schilling said the organization supports diverse career pathways for students, including skilled trades, but worries about implementation quality. His main concern centres on government consideration of abbreviated teacher certification for individuals with degrees, diplomas or trade credentials.

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“Teaching is a rigorous profession requiring expertise and specialized skills beyond just subject knowledge,” Schilling said in a statement. “We need to ensure our future teachers have the tools they need to succeed in classrooms, while upholding the quality of education Alberta students deserve.”

The ATA emphasized that trades education already exists through option courses such as industrial arts and carpentry starting in junior high. However, Schilling said it must remain balanced with broad learning opportunities rather than being prematurely prioritized.

Positive elements recognized

Schilling praised the mandate’s focus on improved supports for students with complex needs and enhanced mental health supports. The ATA also welcomed proposed new schools and mobile CTS labs, saying they will help meet teachers’ and students’ needs across the province.

“We look forward to seeing these items prioritized in Budget 2026,” Schilling said.

The organization called for meaningful dialogue with the profession and educational partners to implement mandate priorities properly.

Government education priorities

Nicolaides said the mandate reflects bold steps to modernize Alberta’s education system and better prepare students for the future. He emphasized streamlining teacher certification, expanding career counselling and promoting trades and apprenticeships to open doors to high-demand careers.

The minister’s responsibilities include supporting students with complex needs and ensuring full implementation of the Education Amendment Act, 2024 (Bill 27). He must also negotiate a sustainable federal childcare agreement that maintains affordability while returning control of childcare policy to the province.

Nicolaides said partnerships with industry and other ministries reflect commitment to student success, parental choice and inclusive opportunity.

The mandate represents one of five letters Smith issued directing ministers to strengthen services, focusing on education, infrastructure and municipal services.

Alberta | AB, Alberta Education, Education, Teachers | Educational Workers

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New mandates focus on education and infrastructure

Written on . Posted in Civic & Government.

Premier Danielle Smith has issued mandate letters to five ministers directing them to strengthen education, infrastructure and municipal services that Albertans rely on daily.

The Sept. 22 announcement tasks Ministers Demetrios Nicolaides (Education and Childcare), Myles McDougall (Advanced Education), Devin Dreeshen (Transportation and Economic Corridors), Martin Long (Infrastructure) and Dan Williams (Municipal Affairs) with ensuring students receive quality education, communities have necessary infrastructure and municipalities can succeed.

Smith called education, infrastructure and strong communities “the building blocks of a strong Alberta.” The mandates focus on delivering priorities that shape the province’s future, grow the economy and build prosperity for families.

Education and childcare priorities

Nicolaides will increase career education opportunities, continue curriculum renewal and create more pathways for qualified teachers to enter classrooms. His mandate includes fast-tracking school projects through the Schools Now program with $8.6 billion committed to create more than 200,000 new and updated student spaces over seven years.

The minister will support students with complex needs, enhance mental health supports and promote parental involvement in education. This includes ensuring full implementation of the Education Amendment Act, 2024 (Bill 27).

Nicolaides must also negotiate a sustainable federal childcare agreement that maintains affordability for parents while returning control of childcare law and policy to the province.

Post-secondary education focus

McDougall will review findings from Alberta’s Expert Panel on Post-Secondary Institution Funding and Alberta’s Competitiveness. The review focuses on ensuring appropriate funding follows students to their chosen institutions while maintaining research and operational funding for universities.

He will work with the Justice Ministry to assess legislation needs for protecting academic freedom and freedom of expression at post-secondary institutions. McDougall will also champion skilled trades education and complete implementation of the Professional Governance Act.

Transportation and infrastructure development

Dreeshen will finalize and implement the Passenger Rail Strategy, complete Calgary’s Blue Line LRT extension by 2030 and advance the Green Line. He will also plan an Edmonton Airport LRT connector.

His mandate includes building and upgrading key trade and energy corridors, including Highway 686, to better connect Alberta’s northwest and northeast regions. He will partner with municipalities and Indigenous communities to expand water systems, bridges and local roads.

Long will build recovery and social infrastructure by constructing new Compassionate Intervention facilities in Calgary and Edmonton while expanding recovery communities. He will strengthen capital planning and procurement by finalizing a predictable funding formula and implementing the Real Property Governance Act framework.

Municipal affairs reforms

Williams will strengthen municipal relationships by building trust with local leaders and working collaboratively to resolve policy conflicts. He will streamline permitting and development by implementing an “Automatic Yes” permitting program and reducing barriers to housing and business development.

The minister will review municipal governance, compensation and codes of conduct to ensure elected officials can fulfill duties while respecting taxpayer dollars. Williams will also explore ways to limit excessive property tax increases and develop strategies against specialized home taxes.

Each minister emphasized their commitment to delivering results that support Alberta families and communities while building foundations for future prosperity.

Advanced Education, Alberta | AB, Alberta Advanced Education, Alberta Child Care, Alberta Education, Alberta Passenger Rail, Dan Williams – Government of Alberta, Devin Dreeshen – Government of Alberta, Education, Infrastructure, Martin Long – Government of Alberta, Municipal Affairs, Myles McDougall – Government of Alberta, Passenger Rail, Social Infrastructure

Alberta premier Danielle Smith, smiling woman with shoulder-length dark brown hair

Premier outlines priorities for ministers

Written on . Posted in Civic & Government.

Premier Danielle Smith has issued new mandate letters to four ministers focused on economic growth, trade expansion and job creation across key Alberta industries.

The government announced Sept. 17 that Ministers Joseph Schow (Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration), Todd Loewen (Forestry and Parks), Andrew Boitchenko (Tourism and Sport) and Tanya Fir (Arts, Culture and Status of Women) received updated priorities. The mandates emphasize promoting Alberta’s industries, driving investment and creating jobs while maintaining Alberta as the best place to live and work.

“A resilient and diversified economy is one of our top priorities and what Albertans expect from their government,” Smith says. “We are creating the conditions for workers and industries in Alberta to keep growing — by supporting investments where they are needed and reducing barriers that stifle innovation and expansion.”

Economic development priorities

Schow’s mandate includes using legal and policy tools to gain greater provincial authority over immigration. He will set sustainable levels that prioritize economic migrants while ensuring young Albertans have access to jobs. Additionally, he must expand programs to reduce youth unemployment and help newcomers integrate successfully.

The minister will attract major domestic and international investment by co-ordinating with partners. Furthermore, he will review and improve incentive programs while increasing the Investment and Growth Fund. His role also includes defending Alberta’s interests in federal trade negotiations and supporting businesses expanding into global markets.

“Alberta continues to stand out as the best place to do business,” Schow says. “Our government’s work is leading to a stronger economy, more jobs and more opportunity for those who call Alberta home.”

Natural resources and recreation

Loewen will secure federal partnerships for wildfire mitigation on federal lands, especially in national parks. Moreover, he will advance proactive fire management through strategic harvesting and fuel reduction. His mandate includes expanding FireSmart programs and acquiring new technology plus modern firefighting equipment.

The minister will finalize and implement a new strategy to expand public access to natural spaces responsibly. This includes adding new campsites, trails and recreation opportunities. Additionally, he will upgrade infrastructure in high-traffic areas like Kananaskis, Canmore and Crowsnest Pass.

“The beautiful outdoors of our province feels like home for many Albertans,” Loewen says. “Our government is continuing its work to make sure that the land we have all grown up loving will stay strong for Albertans today and for future generations.”

Tourism and sport development

Boitchenko will maintain progress on expanding sustainable year-round tourism in the Alberta Rockies with all-season resorts. He must ensure full implementation of the Fairness and Safety in Sport Act while using legal and constitutional tools to defend Alberta athletes.

His mandate includes creating a new provincial bidding policy to oversee future bids for international and national sport events. The minister will work with Treasury Board and Finance to ensure visitors contribute fairly to taxes and fees. He will also continue working with Travel Alberta to reach the ambitious goal of $25 billion in visitor spending.

Cultural industries and heritage

Fir will collaborate with Schow to grow Alberta’s cultural industries including music, television, film and performing arts. She will promote and celebrate Alberta’s unique cultural identity and heritage while identifying opportunities to display the provincial flag and motto more prominently.

The minister will collaborate with First Nations throughout the province that wish to repatriate items belonging to their nations. This includes implementing a new repatriation framework. Additionally, she will cooperate with the Minister of Children and Family Services on developing supports for domestic violence victims.

“Our government has a clear vision for Alberta’s arts, culture and heritage sectors to ensure they remain central to our economy, identity and communities,” Fir says.

Alberta | AB, Alberta Employment, Alberta Environment, Alberta First Nations, Alberta Forestry, Alberta Immigration, Alberta Tourism, Arts and Culture – Alberta, Canmore – Alberta, Crowsnest Pass – Alberta, economic development, Employment, Employment | Careers | Jobs | Help Wanted | Opportunities, Environment, Fairness and Safety in Sport Act – Alberta, Fire | Wildfire, Fire Prevention | Emergency Preparedness, Forestry, Immigration, International Investment and Trade, Joseph Schow – Government of Alberta, Kananaskis – Alberta, Performing Arts, Todd Loewen – Government of Alberta, Tourism, Visual Arts

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Alberta gives industry more flexibility in emission compliance

Written on . Posted in Civic & Government.

Alberta plans to update its Technology Innovation and Emissions Reduction system this fall to give large industrial facilities more flexibility in meeting emission reduction requirements while allowing smaller operations to opt out entirely.

The government announced the proposed TIER system changes Sept. 16, saying they will help companies stay competitive while maintaining Alberta’s leadership in emission reductions. The updates would recognize on-site emission reduction investments as a new compliance option alongside existing choices of paying into the TIER fund or buying credits.

“TIER has always been about Alberta leading the way — proving to the world that it’s possible to increase energy production, grow the economy and lower emissions at the same time,” says Premier Danielle Smith. “These amendments build on that success by giving industry the certainty and flexibility they need to invest right here at home.”

New compliance options

The proposed changes would reward companies for investing directly in emission reduction technology that encourages innovation, supports local jobs and reduces emissions. This adds to current compliance options including paying into the TIER fund at $95 per tonne or purchasing carbon credits.

Environment and Protected Areas Minister Rebecca Schulz says enabling companies to reinvest dollars into their own facilities will benefit the environment while growing the economy and creating jobs.

The updates also allow smaller facilities currently participating in TIER to opt out for 2025 to reduce costs and red tape. Smaller facilities below the regulatory emission threshold can face disproportionate compliance costs under the system designed mainly for large operations.

“This change would help smaller industries save money and redirect resources into emission reduction investments or other operational improvements,” the government says, noting it offers flexibility for small manufacturers and rural operations.

Industry support

Energy and Minerals Minister Brian Jean says the changes will help major energy companies increase production and finance new emission reduction efforts consistent with Alberta’s Emissions Reduction and Energy Development Plan.

Industry groups welcomed the announcement. Tristan Goodman, president and CEO of The Explorers and Producers Association of Canada, says the changes recognize industry concerns around competitiveness while supporting emission reductions in ways that help companies compete for investment and create jobs.

Kendall Dilling, president of Pathways Alliance, says direct investment through TIER is expected to encourage continued investment in emission reduction technologies and advance innovative infrastructure.

System background

Alberta established TIER in 2007 as the first system of its kind in North America. The current system includes about 60 per cent of the province’s total emissions, covering facilities that emit 100,000 tonnes or more annually. Regulated sectors include oil and gas, oil sands mining, electricity, forestry, chemicals, fertilizers, minerals, food processing and waste.

Since 2019, Alberta has invested $1.6 billion from the TIER fund into geothermal, hydrogen, energy storage, methane reduction and carbon capture projects. The government claims these investments will reduce approximately 70 million tonnes of emissions by 2030 while supporting about 21,000 jobs.

More information about Alberta’s emission reduction performance and the TIER system is available on the government’s website.

 

Alberta | AB, Brian Jean – Government of Alberta, Emissions Reduction, Energy, Environment, Envrionmental Policy, Rebecca Schulz – Government of Alberta

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Republican Party of Alberta calls for independence referendum in 2026

Written on . Posted in Civic & Government.

The Republican Party of Alberta is calling on Premier Danielle Smith to commit to a binding referendum on Alberta independence in spring 2026.

The party issued a statement Aug. 25 arguing that the Government of Alberta already has the authority to schedule such a referendum without requiring a petition, claiming what is missing is political will rather than mechanism.

“Albertans deserve clarity on their future, and delaying this decision only deepens the challenges we face,” the party states in its release.

The Republican Party cites federal fiscal management, rising costs of living and what it describes as constraints on Albertans’ rights as reasons for urgency. The statement specifically mentions Prime Minister Mark Carney, claiming decision-makers are “mortgaging Alberta’s future without accountability.”

“Alberta must be free to choose a future that protects its prosperity and freedoms,” the party says. “A referendum in the spring of 2026 provides a clear, democratic path forward, allowing Albertans to make that choice for themselves.”

The statement concludes by suggesting that if the current government does not act, Albertans will have the opportunity to replace it in the next election with one that will pursue independence.

 

Alberta | AB, Alberta Independence | Separation, Republican Party of Alberta

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Premier’s Mexico visit aims to boost Alberta’s $2.9B trade relationship

Written on . Posted in Civic & Government.

Premier Danielle Smith will travel to Mexico City Aug. 10-13 to promote Alberta as a secure, reliable partner in energy, agriculture and technology while strengthening trade relationships.

This marks the first official visit to Mexico by an Alberta premier since 2019, according to an Aug. 8 government announcement. Mexico is Alberta’s fourth-largest bilateral trading partner and one of the province’s fastest-growing export markets.

Smith will meet with government officials, private sector and industry leaders to encourage new investment and trade with Alberta. The mission focuses on identifying synergies in energy and agriculture sectors to leverage new market opportunities for Alberta companies.

“Alberta’s government has made a commitment to Albertans that we will pursue new opportunities, diversify our markets and secure new trade and investment ties around the globe,” Smith said. “Mexico is a valued trading partner, ally and long-time friend to our province.”

In 2024, bilateral trade between Alberta and Mexico totalled nearly $2.9 billion. Alberta exported $785.8 million worth of goods to Mexico, with top exports including meat, oil seed, plastics, energy and cereals.

The province imported approximately $2.1 billion worth of goods from Mexico, primarily machinery, iron and steel, and fruits and nuts.

Smith will champion Alberta’s strengths in agrifood, forestry, technology, tourism and manufacturing during meetings designed to capitalize on mutually beneficial growth opportunities.

The premier’s itinerary includes meeting with Cameron Mackey, Canada’s ambassador to Mexico, as well as Canadian and Mexican companies in energy, food and financial sectors.

She will also participate in roundtables with investors, chamber of commerce representatives and private sector leaders from Mexico’s energy, agriculture, logistics, financial and resource sectors.

Mexico is among the 15 largest economies in the world and the second-largest economy in Latin America. Alberta has maintained an international office in Mexico City since 2002 and has benefited from strong bilateral trade relationships since the 1990s under various trade agreements.

Mission expenses will be posted on the government’s travel and expense disclosure page.

 

Alberta | AB, Alberta Agriculture, Alberta Agrifood, Alberta Forestry, Alberta Manufacturing, Alberta Technology, Tourism

A red pencil circles the word "TARIFF" printed in bold black letters on a white textured surface.

U.S. raises Canadian tariffs amid strong opposition from leaders

Written on . Posted in Alberta.

U.S. President Donald Trump increased tariffs on Canadian goods from 25 to 35 per cent, effective Aug. 1, citing Canada’s alleged failure to address fentanyl trafficking across the northern border.

Trump signed the executive order July 31 under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, according to a White House fact sheet. The president declared Canada’s response to drug trafficking a national emergency and accused the country of retaliating against previous U.S. tariff measures.

The White House said goods qualifying for preferential treatment under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement remain exempt from the tariffs. However, goods transshipped to evade the 35 per cent tariff will face a 40 per cent transshipment tariff.

Government response

Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed disappointment with the decision in an Aug. 1 statement, but said Canada remains committed to the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement. He also noted that Canada accounts for only one per cent of U.S. fentanyl imports and is making historic investments in border security.

“The U.S. application of CUSMA means that the U.S. average tariff rate on Canadian goods remains one of its lowest for all of its trading partners. Other sectors of our economy — including lumber, steel, aluminum, and automobiles — are, however, heavily impacted by U.S. duties and tariffs,” Carney said.

“We can give ourselves more than any foreign government can ever take away by building with Canadian workers and by using Canadian resources to benefit all Canadians.”

In her own statement Friday afternoon, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she was pleased CUSMA-compliant goods remain tariff-free, including the bulk of the province’s exports — oil, gas and agricultural products.

However, she called the increased tariffs disappointing and urged Ottawa to repeal laws restricting resource development.

“I urge the federal government to continue negotiating to resolve these tariff issues and restore a free and fair trade agreement with the United States, while diversifying and strengthening the Canadian economy by unleashing our world-class natural resource sector,” Smith said.

Business and union response

Several Canadian organizations also issued statements regarding the U.S. tariffs announcement.

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce criticized the move, with president and CEO Candace Laing calling the White House document a “fact-less sheet” and saying “fact-less tariff turbulence does not advance North American economic security.”

“The Carney government is right to prioritize a strong, future-focused deal over a rushed one. A little more time now can deliver lasting benefits for an integrated North American economy — and that’s well worth the wait,” she added.

United Steelworkers national director Marty Warren said “no deal is better than a bad deal” and called for the federal government to take retaliatory measures and provide emergency support for workers.

Canada has imposed 25 per cent counter-tariffs on $30 billion worth of U.S. goods, with additional tariffs on aluminum, steel and vehicles that don’t meet CUSMA requirements.

Detailed tariff information

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business provides a general list of current tariffs impacting Canadian goods exported to the States on its website.

  • 50 per cent on aluminum and steel imports from all countries into the U.S.
  • 50 per cent on copper
  • 35 per cent on all imports that don’t comply with the CUSMA (increased from 25 to 35 per cent on Aug. 1)
  • Goods transshipped to evade the 35 per cent tariff will be penalized with a 40 per cent tariff. For example, if a business tries to avoid the tariff by shipping goods through another country first, the U.S. will penalize that action with an even higher tariff of 40 per cent.
  • 25 per cent on all cars and trucks not built in the U.S.
  • 10 per cent on non-CUSMA compliant potash and energy products

The U.S. de minimis treatment for low-value shipments will be eliminated. Starting Aug. 29, goods valued at $800 or less will be subject to all applicable duties.

According to CFIB, tariffs are still under consideration on dairy products, pharmaceuticals and semiconductors, along with an increase the lumber, which is already at 14.7 per cent.

The Government of Canada provides a complete, detailed list of tariff information on its website.

 

Alberta | AB, Business, Canadian Federation of Independent Business CFIB

Three white envelopes blow in the wind in front of an open grey mailbox on the heading for Shootin' the Breeze Mailbox articles and letters to the editor.

Opinion: Coal settlements exceed legal requirements by $90 million

Written on . Posted in Civic & Government, Opinions.

Opinion: Statement on coal payments

Chris Spearman – Water For Food Group

Albertans are not getting a good deal when public dollars are used to pay off foreign-owned coal companies for a situation the government created without a mandate.

Our Alberta government is highly motivated to settle with coal companies and Albertans are paying the price.

There is a long history of political involvement with coal companies.

Neither the UCP government of Jason Kenney nor the UCP government of Danielle Smith sought or received a mandate from Albertans for coal mining.

Former Alberta energy minister Sonja Savage admitted opening up the Eastern Slopes to coal mining was a mistake.

There are clauses in the Alberta Mines and Minerals Act that limit settlements.

Section 8(1)(b) of the Mines and Minerals Act provides the minister with the power to acquire by expropriation [pursuant to the Expropriation Act] any estate or interest in minerals, if the minister is of the opinion that any further exploration for, or development of, those minerals is not in the public interest.

Section 8(1)(c) of the act allows the minister to cancel or refuse to renew an agreement when he is of the opinion that any further exploration or development of the mineral is not in the public interest, subject to the payment of compensation pursuant to the Mineral Rights Compensation Regulation.

Atrum’s amended statement of claim (link below, at paragraph 79) from March shows that Atrum paid $5.3 million to acquire the assets and claims to have spent $41 million on exploration. If you add another $6 million for reclamation, the total amount of compensation would be $52.3 million.

That is the amount to be paid if you apply the cost recovery rules of the Compensation Regulation (Section 8(1)(c) of the act) for the surrender of the Crown leases.

Atrum statement of claim

So how did they get to $142.8 million?

The Alberta government has paid $90 million more than would be paid by applying the rules under the existing legislation.

Energy Minister Brian Jean says that this settlement is good for Alberta taxpayers.

Public statements by Premier Smith and her ministers earlier this year, contending that opening the Rockies and Eastern Slopes to coal mining was needed in order to avoid legal challenges, were seized upon by coal companies as validation of their demands for compensation.

Legal settlements now taking place preclude Energy Minister Brian Jean, Premier Danielle Smith and other government ministers from having to testify under oath in a court of law.

It is our contention that is the true reason for these excessive settlements.

Shootin’ the Breeze welcomes your voice.

The Breeze Mailbox is a space for sharing thoughts, stories, and conversations about what matters locally — from letters and opinion pieces to news releases and reader notes.

The views expressed here are personal and don’t necessarily reflect those of our team or ownership, but we believe in making space for respectful dialogue and community perspective.

Submission guidelines:

  • Keep it under 800 words
  • Include your full name and contact info
  • Be respectful and constructive

We reserve the right to edit for clarity, length and tone

Have something to share? We’d love to hear from you. Send your submission to publisher@shootinthebreeze.ca.

 

Alberta | AB, Atrum Coal – Crowsnest Pass, Brian Jean – Government of Alberta, Chris Spearman – Pincher Creek | Lethbridge, Coal Mining, Jason Kenney – Government of Alberta, Resource Development, Sonja Savage – Government of Alberta

An open envelope with a letter inside that reads, “Dear Premier Smith.”.

Opinion: Premier Smith missed leadership opportunity on Jasper report

Written on . Posted in Civic & Government, Opinions.

Letter: Missed opportunity

Jacqueline L. Chalmers – Claresholm

Premier Danielle Smith:

In true authoritarian style, you attacked the message and the messenger of the Jasper fire report.

The report was commissioned by the municipality and independently authored. Suggestions were made for improvement in emergency response and co-ordination.

How could you in good conscience demand retraction and an apology after reading a non-partisan report on the Jasper fires? Shame on you.

Hundreds, perhaps thousands, were negatively affected either directly or indirectly by the fire. They lost homes, vehicles, treasured possessions and jobs; for many, their mental health is teetering.

You missed an opportunity to show caring and compassionate leadership. After review of the report, you could have sincerely acknowledged the content and reinforced how much was learned, by many, from the tragedy.

Overall, it was an exemplary team effort. Wildland firefighter Morgan Kitchen lost his life fighting to save others. Your humble acceptance of the report would show you actually care about the victims of the fire who suffered tremendous losses. Some empathy, compassion and humility never hurt anyone.

Instead, you chose to once again default to petulance and “blame the other guy.”

Take a dose of your own medicine, practise what you preach, and stay in your own lane until or unless asked to step up and help out.

 

Alberta | AB, Claresholm – Alberta, Fire | Wildfire, Jacqueline Chalmers – Claresholm, Jasper – Alberta

Three white envelopes blow in the wind in front of an open grey mailbox on the heading for Shootin' the Breeze Mailbox articles and letters to the editor.

Opinion: Taxpayers deserve transparency on coal payments

Written on . Posted in Civic & Government.

Opinion: Environmental organizations, community groups and concerned individuals call for full transparency from provincial government

Kennedy Halvorson — Alberta Wilderness Association

Rhiannon Fox — Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment

Jacqueline Chalmers — Chinook Water*Shed Society

David Thomas — Crowsnest Headwaters

Jenny Yeremiy — the Gravity Well

Chris Spearman — Water For Food

Kevin Van Tighem — author

Robert Costa — member of Livingstone Landowners Group and Crowsnest Headwaters

Since the provincial government lifted the moratorium on coal exploration and development on Jan. 15, Albertans have been told it was done for their protection from expensive lawsuits. Five different companies and their subsidiaries have put cases before the courts, claiming over $15 billion total in damages. Behind closed doors, settlements have already been reached with two companies, and the public doesn’t know what was paid or on what terms.

In defence of rescinding the moratorium, the premier stated that “if we do nothing, then we are told we’ll likely lose those cases and have to pay” during the coal town hall in Fort Macleod on June 11. Lawyers have previously pointed out that the provincial government had multiple legal avenues to avoid paying the claims.

On June 14, Atrum Coal Ltd. announced to its shareholders that it had reached a settlement with the Government of Alberta. Two days later, Evolve Power Ltd. (formerly Montem Resources Alberta Operations Ltd.) released a similar statement, both of which were absent of any specific details on the agreements.

This information has not been publicly released through official government channels but was first reported in the news on July 3.

The lack of transparency from the government during these proceedings is unacceptable, particularly following the findings of the Coal Policy Committee, which emphasized the need to restore public trust and respect public interest. Albertans have made abundantly clear they are concerned about coal mining in the foothills and Rockies and expect to be informed.

It’s evident that rescinding the moratorium did not protect taxpayers as the government had proposed; the coal companies continued with their claims against the province even as their past coal applications were revived by the Alberta Energy Regulator.

If taxpayer money is to be used to settle disputes with these companies, Albertans deserve to know what they are paying for.

We demand the Government of Alberta:

—Make the settlement terms and amounts public.

—Ensure the settlements provide for the surrender of Crown coal leases and the transfer of freehold mineral rights to the Crown.

—Ensure coal companies address any and all environmental liabilities acquired or assumed by past activities on the landscape.

—Establish new protected areas that conserve Alberta’s headwaters and slopes.

—Consult meaningfully with Indigenous Nations prior to any policy changes, to ensure no infringement on treaty rights or impact to traditional territories.

—Respect public interest and include public input in any future coal policies, including the Coal Industry Modernization Initiative.

“Coal development threatens to pollute the rivers and lakes we count on for drinking water, fishing, and recreation. As physicians, we see first-hand the toll that environmental degradation takes on people’s health, especially in rural, Indigenous and underserved communities. Keeping the public in the dark undermines both trust and public health.” — Dr. Claire Barber, Calgary-based rheumatologist and volunteer with the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment

 

Alberta | AB, Alberta Energy Regulator AER, Alberta Envrionment, Alberta water, Alberta Wilderness Association, Atrum Coal – Crowsnest Pass, Chinook Water*Shed Society – Alberta, Claresholm – Alberta, Coal Mining, Coal Policy, Cowley – Alberta, Crowsnest Headwaters – Alberta, Crowsnest Pass – Alberta, David Thomas – Crowsnest Pass, Environment, Evolve Power | Montem Resources – Crowsnest Pass, Fort Macleod – Alberta, Health Care Professionals, Jacqueline Chalmers – Claresholm, Kevin Van Tighem – Alberta Author, Resource Development, Robert Costa – Cowley, Water For Food – Alberta

A group of people parade on a city street, some wearing paper bag masks. One person holds a large fish prop, and another holds a colorful “Wheel of Coally Misfortune” sign. Cars and trees line the street in the background.

Protesters rally at Stampede breakfast over headwaters concerns

Written on . Posted in Alberta.

Pancakes and protest signs over Alberta’s headwaters

As hundreds gathered for pancakes and festivities Monday outside Calgary’s McDougall Centre, a smaller but passionate crowd of protesters arrived bright and early, carrying signs and banners as they called for urgent action to protect Alberta’s Eastern Slopes.

Organized by Defenders of the Eastern Slopes (DOES), the peaceful protest took place during Premier Danielle Smith’s Stampede pancake breakfast and aimed to highlight public opposition to continued industrial developments in Alberta’s Rocky Mountain headwaters.

 

People in cowboy hats and aprons serve food and drinks at an outdoor event. One woman hands a cup to a man with a plate of food. Others in the background are also dressed in western attire.

 

“We’re watching the Eastern Slopes turn into an industrial wasteland in real time,” said longtime rancher and conservationist Mike Judd, speaking at the event. 

“It’s where all our water comes from, it’s where all our wildlife is and it’s where the last of the wilderness is. We’re going to lose it to open-pit coal mines and we’re losing massive amounts of forest to clear-cut logging, and we’ve got a number of orphaned gas wells.”

Joined by fellow demonstrators, Judd expressed disappointment that many attendees of the pancake breakfast appeared to avoid engaging with the protest.

“It seems like, generally, people are kind of trying to ignore the signs, which, to me, is surprising, considering that we are talking about some of the biggest issues in Alberta right here,” he said.

Despite the lingering sense early on during the demonstration that folks were largely avoiding the protest, demonstrators stood firm in their purpose.

For Ken Williams, a spokesperson for DOES who spoke ahead of the protest, the message is simple: the province’s leadership needs to change course.

“There are a lot of concerned citizens wanting to see better care taken for the Eastern Slopes, better than what we’ve seen from the province and industry to date,” he said. 

“There’s just way too much at stake. If the Oldman [River] gets poisoned, that will have huge impacts for everybody downstream.”

Williams spoke of a growing sense of frustration after years of advocacy, letters, hearings and legal battles. Much of the efforts have been focused on halting projects like the Grassy Mountain coal mine, which was initially rejected but has since re-emerged. 

“There’s just no trust left in this process; too many weird things going on with the government, and too much of a poor track record,” he said.

The decision to protest at the premier’s high-profile Stampede breakfast, according to Williams, was made not for the sake of confrontation, but rather to inform.

“It’s a reminder, a reminder that there are people who are very concerned about what’s going on and want the government to steer this in the right direction,” he said.

Gordon Petersen, a fellow spokesperson for DOES and demonstrators at the protest, echoed the urgency shared by his peers. He hopes not only to protest for his friends and family, but also for all Albertans who could potentially be affected by industrial developments in the headwaters.

“I have empathy and compassion for my neighbours in Okotoks, not just my next-door neighbours, but throughout the town, throughout the region,” Petersen said.

“We’re all Albertans, we’re all Canadians, so when we step up and care about our neighbours, then something like this becomes very personal.”

Both Petersen and Judd expressed hope that, even if there were those who avoided eye contact or didn’t stop to ask questions, the protest still registered.

“You never really know the full impact of these kinds of events. Somewhere in there, we’re touching people and that’s what matters,” said Petersen.

“I’m here for all those things that have no voice, all the endangered animals that are disappearing off the Eastern Slopes, the fish, the birds, the bears,” said Judd.

DOES describes itself as a non-partisan grassroots movement advocating for Alberta’s mountain landscapes, watersheds and biodiversity. 

Alongside other organizations, DOES has held community meetings, protests and information sessions across the province, and hopes to continue pushing for stronger environmental protections. 

The watersheds of the Eastern Slopes provide drinking water to millions of Albertans and DOES protestors say coal mining and large-scale logging threaten the region’s water security.

“Nobody really wants to be doing this sort of thing, we want to spend our time and energy on other things, but this is a priority that we can’t ignore,” Williams said.

 

 

Alberta | AB, Defenders of the Eastern Slopes | DOES – Alberta, Environment, Ken Williams Pincher Creek, Logging, Mike Judd – Pincher Creek

A woman in a white cowboy hat speaks at a podium labeled "Alberta Ontario" while a man stands beside her. The Alberta, Canadian, and Ontario flags are in the background.

Alberta and Ontario sign deals to support pipelines and trade

Written on . Posted in Civic & Government.

Alberta and Ontario have signed two new memorandums of understanding (MOUs) to advance major infrastructure development and strengthen interprovincial trade.

The agreements were signed July 7, during a live press conference held while Ontario Premier Doug Ford was in Calgary for the Stampede.

According to a statement from the Alberta government issued the same day, the MOUs commit the provinces to work together on new pipelines, rail lines and energy corridors, with the goal of expanding access to global markets for oil, gas and critical minerals.

The first MOU focuses on creating energy corridors and strategic trade routes to connect Alberta and Ontario’s oil, gas and critical minerals to global markets. It includes support for new pipeline and rail projects, development of port infrastructure and collaboration on refining, processing and nuclear energy projects.

The second MOU outlines Alberta’s intent to explore prioritizing made‑in‑Canada vehicles for its government fleet, and includes a shared commitment to reduce interprovincial liquor trade barriers.

Premier Danielle Smith said both provinces are ready to move ahead. “Alberta and Ontario are joining forces to get shovels in the ground and resources to market,” she said. “These MOUs are about building pipelines and boosting trade that connects Canadian energy and products to the world.”

Ford said reducing reliance on the United States is a priority and that infrastructure investments are needed to strengthen Canada’s economy. “Together, we are building the infrastructure we need to protect Canada, our workers, businesses and communities,” he said.

Both premiers also called for the federal government to repeal or amend legislation they say restricts growth in the energy and industrial sectors — including the Impact Assessment Act, the Oil Tanker Moratorium Act, Clean Electricity Regulations and a proposed cap on oil and gas emissions.

They argue these policies deter investment and limit provincial autonomy over natural resources.

Steering committees will be formed to support co‑operation under the agreements, and a joint feasibility study is expected to begin this year to evaluate key infrastructure projects.

The MOUs build on a June 1 agreement between the provinces aimed at improving trade and advancing shared priorities.

Alberta | AB, Business, Doug Ford – Government of Ontario, Government of Ontario, Impact Assessment Act, Oil Tanker Moratorium Act

A group of blank protest signs, with one sign in the center displaying an illustration of two hands holding a paw print with raised fists inside the print.

Eastern Slopes defenders to protest at premier’s Stampede breakfast

Written on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Protest planned at premier’s Stampede breakfast over Eastern Slopes coal mining

A peaceful protest is planned outside Premier Danielle Smith’s Stampede Pancake Breakfast in Calgary on July 7 as conservation groups and citizens rally against coal mining and logging on Alberta’s Eastern Slopes.

The demonstration, organized by Defenders of the Eastern Slopes, is scheduled from 7 to 9 a.m. at the McDougall Centre. The group says is protesting the province’s continued support for industrial development in the Rocky Mountain headwaters, despite public opposition.

“The Eastern Slopes of the Rocky Mountains are destined to become an industrial wasteland of coal mines, deforested headwaters and abandoned gas wells unless we step up now and demand protection for this critical ecosystem,” said Mike Judd, a longtime conservationist and rancher, in a statement released by the group on Thursday.

The protest is part of what the group calls a growing grassroots movement focused on protecting Alberta’s water sources and mountain landscapes. Defenders of the Eastern Slopes has been hosting events across the province in partnership with other civil society groups, with thousands of Albertans participating.

Ken Williams, a spokesperson for the organization, said the government is not responding to environmental concerns or the voices of Albertans.

“Our current government seems to be deaf to the public’s demands, and to what science is telling us about industrial impacts on critical watersheds,” he said. “What does it take for them to hear our voices?”

The Eastern Slopes provide drinking water for millions of people in Alberta. Protesters say coal mining and large-scale logging threaten the region’s biodiversity, water quality and long-term climate resilience.

Defenders of the Eastern Slopes describes itself as a non-partisan grassroots organization focused on protecting the region through peaceful action, advocacy and public education.

Alberta | AB, Calgary – Alberta, Calgary Stampede, Coal Mining, Defenders of the Eastern Slopes | DOES – Alberta, Environment, Ken Williams Pincher Creek, Logging, Mike Judd – Pincher Creek, Resource Development

Logo with the word "Alberta" in stylized script above a blue banner that says "Government News and Notices" in white uppercase letters.

Sat Parhar named chief of Alberta’s new police agency

Written on . Posted in Civic & Government, RCMP & Public Safety.

Alberta has appointed Sat Parhar as the first chief of the Independent Agency Police Service, marking a key step in the province’s plan to give municipalities an additional option for local policing.

Parhar brings more than 25 years of experience to the role, including senior leadership with the Calgary Police Service, where he most recently served as deputy chief. His first priorities include hiring an executive team and establishing recruitment, training and operational policies as the agency prepares to launch.

The announcement was made in a July 2 statement from the Government of Alberta.

The IAPS, which was formally created through regulation under the Public Safety Statutes Amendment Act, 2024, will operate as an independent Crown corporation. It will eventually be renamed the Alberta Sheriffs Police Service and have its head office in Calgary.

While funded by the province, the agency will operate independently and with civilian oversight, in line with other police services in Alberta.

Premier Danielle Smith said the appointment is “a key milestone in Alberta’s plan to give municipalities a real choice in how their communities are kept safe.” She said the new agency aims to enhance public safety and local decision-making, particularly in rural areas.

The IAPS is being established to assume police-like duties currently performed by the Alberta Sheriffs. It will complement existing law enforcement services in Alberta — including the RCMP, Indigenous policing and municipal police — and is intended to improve response times and ensure more efficient deployment of resources.

Public Safety and Emergency Services Minister Mike Ellis called the appointment a step toward a more community-focused policing model. He said the agency under Parhar’s leadership would be “responsive, transparent, and dedicated to fostering trust and collaboration within the community.”

Parhar said his goal is to help shape “a modern police service built for Alberta” and to ensure that its operations reflect community needs. “My focus from day one will be on setting high standards for professionalism, building strong relationships with our partners and ensuring this service reflects the needs and priorities of the communities we serve,” he said.

The announcement has drawn interest from municipalities seeking alternatives to existing models. Coaldale Mayor Jack Van Rijn said smaller communities are often disadvantaged under current arrangements. “This is about fairness, sustainability, and ensuring municipalities have access to policing solutions that reflect both their needs and their realities,” he said.

Alberta | AB

Alberta reports $8.3B surplus, outlines fiscal strategy

Written on . Posted in Civic & Government.

Alberta ends 2024–25 with $8.3B surplus, outlines debt repayment and savings plan

Alberta closed the 2024–25 fiscal year with a surplus of $8.3 billion, marking the province’s fourth consecutive surplus. Premier Danielle Smith presented the year-end financial results during a press conference on June 27, attributing the outcome to higher-than-expected revenues and what she called “disciplined decisions and a clear commitment to responsible government.”

Smith said the surplus will be used to repay debt, build savings and support Alberta through global economic uncertainty. “In uncertain times, Alberta showing this kind of economic leadership is important,” she said.

President of Treasury Board and Finance Minister Nate Horner also addressed the results, calling the surplus a sign of Alberta’s strength. “We’re paying down debt, saving for the future and backing the services Albertans count on,” Horner said.

The province’s total revenue for 2024–25 reached $82.5 billion — $8.9 billion more than forecast in Budget 2024. Non-renewable resource revenue totalled $22 billion, up from $17.3 billion at budget, due to stronger bitumen royalties driven by narrower light-heavy oil differentials and a lower exchange rate.

Tax revenue came in at $30.4 billion — $1.7 billion above estimates. This included $8.1 billion in corporate income tax and a record $16.1 billion in personal income tax, largely attributed to population growth and rising personal incomes.

Alberta’s economy grew steadily in 2024, aided by the launch of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion, record crude oil output and increased natural gas production. The price of West Texas Intermediate oil averaged US$74.34 per barrel — slightly higher than forecast. The light-heavy differential averaged US$13.06 per barrel, $2.94 narrower than estimated.

The province also received $713 million from a national tobacco settlement.

On the spending side, total expenses were $74.1 billion — $967 million more than forecast — driven by additional funding for health, education and disaster relief. Health spending rose to $29.6 billion, including efforts to expand surgeries, recruit doctors and deliver lab services. Education spending totalled $17.2 billion, with increased funding for both K-12 and post-secondary institutions.

The government provided $1.9 billion in disaster relief, including $702 million for wildfires, $191 million for evacuation and recovery efforts and $1 billion for drought relief to farmers and producers.

The province ended the year with $5.1 billion in surplus cash. Following Alberta’s fiscal framework, half — $2.6 billion — will go toward debt repayment or the Alberta Heritage Savings Trust Fund. The remaining half will be allocated to the Alberta Fund, which may be used for savings, further debt reduction or one-time initiatives.

Alberta’s taxpayer-supported debt at year-end was $85.2 billion, with debt servicing costs of $3.2 billion — $200 million below budget due to lower borrowing needs.

The Alberta Heritage Savings Trust Fund grew to a record $27.2 billion as of March 31, 2025, supported by $1.9 billion in investment income and a $2 billion reinvestment from the prior year’s surplus. The province says this growth supports its long-term target of $250 billion by 2050.

A link to the June 27 press conference is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_VisgnhEPdA here.

 

 

Alberta | AB, Nate Horner – Government of Alberta

Premier Danielle Smith and MLAs at UCP town hall in Grande Prairi

Smith addresses AISH cuts, school funding at Grande Prairie meeting

Written on . Posted in Alberta.

Premier Smith hosts town hall event in Grande Prairie

Residents brought their concerns directly to Premier Danielle Smith on Friday at a town hall event hosted by the United Conservative Party.

Separation, disability funding, education, utility bills and homelessness were key issues.

“What practical reason exists to stay within Canada?” was one of the first questions asked of Smith.

She spoke about changing the number of signatures needed on a petition — from 566,000 to 177,000 — noting that the petition’s number previously was “unachievable” and not suitable for democracy.

“I personally believe that my job is to try to make the case for Canada, and try to make the case for us to stay in and try to fix the problems that we have,” she said.

“If I’m unsuccessful, then I’m sure Albertans are going to weigh in, but I feel like this prime minister understands the existential threat to the country.”

The crowd began to boo after a mention of the prime minister.

Smith said she is giving PM Mark Carney about six months to see if he will fix what she calls nine bad policies.

“There are two different Mark Carneys; one of them is the pragmatic banker who worked for both the conservative government here and a conservative government in Britain and then there’s the net zero financing guy who was going around the world trying to find a way to defund our industry, so I don’t know which guy he is.”

She admitted, “I’ve never seen separatist intention be higher than it is right now.”

Disability funding

Inclusion Grande Prairie president Keith Moore asked the premier why the federal Canada Disability Benefit (CBD) is being deducted from Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH).

He said the CBD payment, which provides up to $200 a month, will be deducted from clients’ AISH payments instead of being added to them.

“Recipients receive $1,900 per month, which leaves them all at the poverty level in Alberta,” he reminded the premier.

Smith says the issue is that Alberta has higher benefits than other provinces, which attracts people to the province for the better benefits.

She said CBD is making other provinces closer in line with Alberta for disability payments and creating less incentive for people to come to Alberta.

Smith alluded to the Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP), which she says will allow people currently on AISH to work more and still receive benefits.

She said the province is also working on a program to cover pharmacare for residents who cannot afford the benefits.

Classrooms

The premier was questioned about how funding is coming to rural schools and what is being done to help students.

“We actually do have more dollars flowing through the rural school boards than urban,” said Smith.

She said urban school boards receive about $11,000 per student while rural boards receive about $14,000 per student.

“What we’re hearing from the front lines is that those dollars aren’t necessarily flowing down to the classroom.

“I fear that a lot of dollars are being somehow caught up in administration or other positions and not getting down to the kind of support that is needed at the school.”

She said work is beginning on finding why more educational assistants are not being used in the classroom.

“We have 29,000 severely disabled individuals who are in our schools, and if those kids don’t have an education assistant attached to them, then it’s the teacher who’s going to have to get pulled to help with medical feeding, toileting, aggression, and that’s then creating a classroom environment which is just not conducive to learning for the other kids.”

Smith says consultations will be held with teachers to determine the best approach for students who cannot be integrated into regular classrooms, and wants to explore the possibility of creating specialized classrooms for students with higher needs.

She said there are currently 29,000 individuals with severe disabilities in classrooms, and school boards are not assigning enough educational assistants. Smith also noted that there are currently only 11,000 educational assistants in the province.

Additionally, there are 95,000 students with English as their second language, as well as students who require mild to moderate support.

“We are talking about maybe moving to a model where the province has more direct control over assigning the education assistance, especially to those high-needs kids, because those are kids who probably will need support for life.

“They probably needed support before they got to school; they’re probably going to need support after they leave school, so maybe there is a bit more of a role for our social services department.”

Utility bills

Smith said that Grande Prairie MLA Nolan Dyck and Grande Prairie-Wapiti MLA Ron Wiebe are committed to lowering utility distribution rates in the north.

Wiebe said not only is the high cost of electricity affecting residents, but it is also affecting investment in the area. He said he carries his electricity bills with him to Edmonton to demonstrate the disparity in cost to other MLAs.

“It’s causing us investment losses here because people don’t want to invest here, because the cost of utilities is high,” said Wiebe.

Smith is hopeful for a resolution before winter when costs will rise.

“We had one proposal that came forward that was not quite the right one, that didn’t succeed, but we have my affordability and utilities minister working on another one,” said Smith. “We know that there’s a very unique problem in this particular service area on distribution fees, and we are really wanting to solve it before the end of the year.”

Homelessness

A resident referred to a Town & Country News article on Wapiti House and noted that with the closure of the Peace River shelter, its homeless population is coming to Grande Prairie.

“I’ve heard Peace River closed down, and so they’re pretty happy because they’ve solved their problem there,” said Smith, “I didn’t realize that it migrated over here, but that’s one of the issues, you build those kinds of facilities, you end up sometimes creating more problems.”

Dyck noted the work of non-government organizations, such as Rising Above, and the treatment services it provides in the area, as well as the provincial treatment centre being built in Clairmont.

He also noted the work the city is doing with transitional housing.

Maskwa Medical Center

Though Smith noted she is aware of Maskwa Medical Center — a community-driven Mayo-style clinic in Grande Prairie — she did not announce any financial commitments to it, as has been requested by organizers and municipalities.

Smith confirmed that the $4-million CT scanner, which the community funded, is now approved for installation at Fairview Hospital.

Critics of the town hall event, including some speakers, said the 3 p.m. Friday time — when many people were unavailable or working — as well as the short notice given to the public as being problematic.

UCP members were notified by email on Monday; MLAs made no social media posts about the event.

 

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This article was written by a reporter supported through the Local Journalism Initiative and edited by the writer’s host newsroom. The Local Journalism Initiative is a federally funded program that supports original public-interest journalism in smaller or underserved communities across Canada. Content produced through the initiative is editorially independent and does not necessarily reflect the views of Shootin’ the Breeze.

Stories like this are shared to keep readers informed and connected — and to reflect real Canadian life.

 

Alberta | AB, Alberta Disability Assistance Program | ADAP, Alberta Independence | Separation, Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped | AISH, Beaverlodge – Alberta, Canada Disability Benefit | CDB, Homelessness – Alberta, Nolan Dyck – Government of Alberta, Peace River – Alberta, Ron Wiebe – Government of Alberta, Town & Country News – Alberta, United Conservative Party | UCP – Alberta

Three white envelopes blow in the wind in front of an open grey mailbox on the heading for Shootin' the Breeze Mailbox articles and letters to the editor.

Opinion: The things we do for our kids

Written on . Posted in Opinions.

Opinion

Blaine Moen — Cowley

My entire life, I’ve known and lived my life based on the commitment that we humans, our basic function is to make more humans. Not just more, but better humans too. Bettering ourselves and our environment. Making our lives and the planet better.

My wife and I have two beautiful girls, in their 30s now. Those girls have partners and now we have a grandson.

Throughout our lives we have worked to help educate our kids and provide them a comfortable and hopefully challenging experience. To show them that they matter and, by extension, everything they do matters. I’ve grown confident, even comfortable, with the notion that our kids are helping to make our world a bit better every day.

Although I personally have not run for elected office, I’ve been the president of my community association, a board member of a group representing hundreds of rural families and landowners, and I’ve followed politics and government closely my entire life. The last 10 years have been a struggle for me in terms of health, but still I manage to contribute where I can with the help of a supportive partner.

I do worry about the future for our girls and, collectively, all our kids more and more. War prompted by one man’s insatiable desire to run the clock back in Ukraine. Political unrest and a worsening divide in the United States. And nearly nine billion people, many with the idea that unlimited growth is the only path forward on a planet with limited resources.

Most of what we do as a family is designed around leaving our kids and now their kids as much opportunity as is reasonable. The obvious topic most people focus on is money, “inheritance.” Yes, like nearly every other person with kids, we too are doing our best to leave them enough to make their lives more comfortable, hopefully, even interesting and fulfilling.

This leads to my main topic, legacy. While we all work to gain financial security, we owe it to our future as a species to consider how best to achieve that security. Income, jobs, careers and the economy are the simplest ways we all gain the security I mention, but these things don’t occur in a vacuum. All businesses’ or industries’ goals haven’t changed over the last hundred years: Provide the most profit within the context of providing a product or service.

All that considered, humans are learning, one way or another, if in the pursuit of our economic goals we compromise our future, financially or otherwise, then we will ultimately fail. In simpler terms, too many times we cut down the apple tree to build an apple juice factory.

This is where we are today in Alberta. Our UCP politicians are advancing coal mines along our Eastern Slopes against the wishes of a majority of Albertans, against the Alberta Energy Regulator decision to reject Grassy Mountain and against prevailing science. All in the name of economic prosperity and UCP fear of lawsuits brought on by UCP actions.

Recently, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith appeared with Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe to bring attention to their desire to increase investment by expanding new pipelines. Smith said, “We need the increased investment and royalties to help fund the diversification of the Alberta economy.”

I’d like to point out the hypocrisy in that statement as Smith placed a pause on renewable energy (safe and clean energy providing the very diversity Smith claims to motivate expanding pipelines), citing environmental and viewscape concerns.

Increasing the madness of UCP actions, Smith, via Energy Minister Brian Jean, removed an exploration moratorium on coal development, which immediately allowed the AER to authorize Grassy Mountain to proceed with drilling. I suppose in the eyes of the UCP, wind and solar farms (which are removable) are less attractive than coal mines.

The real issue and the major reason behind my family’s specific efforts to stop these coal mines is to protect our water. Alberta has many riches. Energy, like oil and gas, solar and wind. Endless beauty, rolling foothills, oceans of farmland, and our Rocky Mountains are unmatched.

One item Alberta has a shortage of is water. Southern Alberta and southern Saskatchewan are the driest, most arid areas of Canada. I know. I live in southern Alberta. Water represents our very existence here and if you think you won’t be impacted by the UCP opening coal mines where our water is generated, you might want to reconsider.

Beef, pork and poultry are all made possible by water generated in the Eastern Slopes of Alberta. Frito-Lay and McCain are just two of dozens of irrigators who depend on the Oldman River. Water was one of the main reasons listed when the AER rejected Grassy Mountain in 2021.

Some “in the know” people suggest the UCP are appearing to support foreign coal companies in some sort of backwards effort to make themselves look better to cut a better deal in court. Then, the AER will “decide” against Grassy Mountain, again, and the UCP will say, “See, we told you to trust our regulator.

It’s impossible to guess what is motivating an idiot when he lights his own hair on fire while running through a gas plant screaming, “I’m a lawyer from Fort McMurray! I’m minister of energy! I failed my driver’s licence four times! I know what I’m doing!”

This brings us back around to the point of what are we doing and why. I play pool; I’m not very good, but I play by the premise, it’s not what you make, it’s what you leave. That’s true about our economy as well. If in pursuit of economic prosperity we ruin our water, what have we gained?

Myself, I’d rather our UCP government fight foreign speculators in court and protect the water we have. Smith says she is concerned about financial losses from the court cases. On this she’s correct, the UCP should be concerned.

They fabricated this entire fiasco out of thin air. Whatever happens from this, win or lose in court, coal mines in our watershed or not, this is a legacy the United Conservative Party of Alberta owns, 100 per cent. And, just like last time, we Albertans will literally be made to pay, again, for conservative mistakes.

That said, water, not steel coal, not economic investment, not the threat of losing money from lawsuits, but water must be our primary focus. Personally, I have no desire to continue to fight the UCP. I’d much rather be focused on improving my health or spending time with family and friends. Unfortunately, that’s just not possible while UCP politicians threaten our water.

The things we do for our kids.

Plaque titled “Blairmore Coal Piles Reclamation Project,” describing the environmental rehabilitation of coal piles in Alberta, completed in 1969. The Alberta coat of arms and government acknowledgments are included.

Blairmore Coal Piles Reclamation Project

Protecting and Preserving Our Natural Legacy — Alberta’s Environment

The removal, clean-up and rehabilitation of the Blairmore coal piles is the largest reclamation project undertaken to date by Alberta Environment. Approximately 660,000 tonnes of coal slack was removed from Blairmore to a prepared site at Cougar Canyon between 1987 and 1988. Completion of the $2.63 million project will improve water quality in the Crowsnest River and return 57 acres of land for productive use for Albertans now and in the future.

Since 1977, Alberta Environment’s land reclamation program has recovered abandoned derelict sites for the long-term social and economic benefit of Albertans province-wide. Unsightly and hazardous sites have been reclaimed for beneficial uses in agriculture, recreation or residential development.

This reclaimed site is dedicated to all area residents and was officially opened October 6, 1989.

Honourable Ralph Klein, Minister of Environment

Fred Bradley, MLA, Pincher Creek–Crowsnest

 

 

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Alberta water, Blaine Moen – Cowley, Coal Mining, Drought, Natural Hazards and Disasters, Resource Development, Scott Moe – Government of Saskatchewan