MLA Report: Alberta deserves a fair deal
By Medicine Hat News Opinon on August 29, 2019.
With a little under two months until our next federal election, it is important for us to remember what is at stake when Canadians head to the polls on Oct. 21. This isn’t an election like most. In Ottawa, Justin Trudeau’s Liberals have done all they can to hold back Alberta and stand in the way of our success. Whether through the Tanker Ban, Bill C-48, or the No More Pipelines Act, C-69, Alberta faces significant challenges unlike any in recent memory – well, at least since the last time there was a Trudeau in power. At the provincial level, we are fighting for Albertans and our world-class energy sector. Whether through the passing of bills in the legislature, such as the Alberta Senate Elections Act to ensure that Alberta Senators remain accountable to Albertans and our interests, or by taking steps to reduce the red tape that makes it harder for job creators to invest and thrive in Alberta, your United Conservative government has taken swift and immediate action to encourage growth. Unfortunately, it stands to reason that, unless the government in Ottawa is replaced by you, the voter, in October, Alberta will continue to face a number of challenges. Whether they be brought by jurisdictional overreach, such as the job-killing-carbon tax, or simply the continuation of Canada’s flawed equalization formula, Alberta deserves better. This is especially true as it relates to equalization. Through federal taxation, Albertans have contributed over $620 billion to the federation since 1957. We have proven that we are not selfish, and we are glad to share our prosperity. But in order for us to continue doing so, we need to be treated as equal partners, and so I echo the call put forward by our premier; If Ottawa and other provinces want to benefit from Alberta’s resources, then they must not oppose the transport and sale of those resources. In the lead up to the election, I hope you join the premier and I in this call to action at forums, debates, and when candidates come knocking on your door. Ask your federal candidates where they stand on Bills C-48, C-69, and equalization. All of Canada benefits when Alberta is able to prosper – Albertans deserve a fair deal. Michaela Glasgo is MLA (UCP) for Brooks-Medicine Hat constituency. 7-6
