The big news is that spring session has finally bloomed with a Throne Speech in March 8.
Working sittings began at 9 a.m. on March 9.
The government continues to advance its agenda to which I personally find confusing. On the one hand they want to diversify our energy markets, but on the other had their green Climate Leadership Plan seems bent on punishing and pummeling all carbon based industry and energy production through a regressive $3 billion carbon tax.
This tax will cost municipalities, industries and employee jobs in central Alberta. The carbon tax will cost average family $1000/year added to their gas, heating fuel and electricity bills.
While the government seems to be concerned about families who have lost their jobs, it is not doing anything helpful. Their flagship Bill # 1 is anemic: “An act to allow a minister to do ministerial stuff” was the immediate response of one observer.
It is like the earlier promoted Jobs program, after creating zero jobs, the program has just been cancelled. We were told it would create 27,000 jobs and start in January 2016. Now we have a different program and still zero jobs, but more layoffs. My sincere apologies to those looking for work.
With regard to the new business diversification and development, it essentially is offering to help business get into debt. The amount of money offered is miniscule compared to the money that has been driven away. There have been no new businesses started.
With as many as 20 social agenda Bills coming, but little economic help for Albertans, it is going to be an interesting session.
As MLA for the Lacombe-Ponoka Constituency my top priorities include meeting with and listening to local constituents. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact my office at 403-782-7725 or by e-mail Lacombe.ponoka@assembly.ab.ca or drop in for a chat at 101, 4892 46 street, Lacombe, AB. T4L 2B4.