Alberta Life & Living
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says the oil and natural gas industry is not phasing out of production and rejects modelling that shows the industry is going to collapse. She joins Power & Politics to discuss her stance and her plans for the province to reset relations with Ottawa.
“With a new year dawning, Albertans have many reasons for optimism.
“Our economy has bounced back from serious challenges and is showing signs of strength. Businesses are growing, creating fresh jobs and opportunities, while Alberta’s resources are in demand around the world.
“At the same time, our government is moving quickly to ease the affordability crisis, improve access to health care and stand fast with other provinces against federal overreach.
“There is a long road ahead to achieve these goals. But Alberta has never lacked for ambition or the resolve to see it through to success. Together, we will protect and build up our beautiful home, making it a better place for everyone.
"As Albertans, we have much to be thankful for and even more to be excited about in the future. I wish you all a safe, happy and fulfilling 2023!”
- The Legislature continues its break until October 31st, but there will be a meeting of the Standing Committee on The Alberta Heritage Savings Trust Fund on Tuesday at 9:00 am. The Committee will discuss the draft of the 2021-2022 Annual Report as well as put together a plan to host the Fund’s Annual Public Meeting.
- There will be no regularly scheduled COVID-19 updates this week, or going forward. Public data will still be gathered, but last week marked the final in-person briefing. In the fall, Alberta will report on the disease using the dashboard for reporting influenza.
- Alberta’s first lithium evaluation wells will be drilled in Leduc, on the same site as the historic oilfield that launched the province’s oil and gas industry. Calgary startup E3 Lithium will be teaming up with Imperial Oil on the pilot project. The goal is to create a domestic supply chain for lithium, which is used for electric vehicle batteries.
- The Legislature continues its summer recess until October 31st, however there is one committee meeting scheduled for this week. The Standing Committee on Legislative Offices will meet on Wednesday from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, but no agenda is available yet.
- The recent rainy weather is providing some hope to farmers in southern Alberta. Before the rainfall, four districts had declared an agricultural disaster. The rain may have come too late though, as sub-soil moisture levels are not where they should be. Still, some farmers are saying there is renewed optimism for a good harvest.
- The Free Alberta Strategy team will be hosting a virtual UCP Leadership Panel on Thursday, June 23rd from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The online discussion will centre around the Free Alberta Strategy, equalization, transfer payments, and other aspects of Alberta/Federal relations. The event is free and everyone is welcome, but registration is required.