Alberta Hansard — 11 February 2009, Afternoon sitting (13:30) (Legislature 27, Session 2)

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Alberta — Debates (Hansard)

Province of Alberta The 27th Legislature Second Session Alberta Hansard Wednesday, February 11, 2009 Issue 2 The Honourable Kenneth R. Kowalski, Speaker

Legislative Assembly of Alberta The 27th Legislature Second Session Kowalski, Hon. Ken, Barrhead-Morinville-Westlock, Speaker Cao, Wayne C.N., Calgary-Fort, Deputy Speaker and Chair of Committees Mitzel, Len, Cypress-Medicine Hat, Deputy Chair of Committees Ady, Hon. Cindy, Calgary-Shaw (PC), Minister of Tourism, Parks and Recreation Allred, Ken, St.

Albert (PC) Amery, Moe, Calgary-East (PC) Anderson, Rob, Airdrie-Chestermere (PC), Parliamentary Assistant, Solicitor General and Public Security Benito, Carl, Edmonton-Mill Woods (PC) Berger, Evan, Livingstone-Macleod (PC), Parliamentary Assistant, Sustainable Resource Development Bhardwaj, Naresh, Edmonton-Ellerslie (PC) Bhullar, Manmeet Singh, Calgary-Montrose (PC), Parliamentary Assistant, Advanced Education and Technology Blackett, Hon.

Lindsay, Calgary-North West (PC), Minister of Culture and Community Spirit Blakeman, Laurie, Edmonton-Centre (L), Deputy Leader of the Official Opposition Official Opposition House Leader Boutilier, Guy C., Fort McMurray-Wood Buffalo (PC) Brown, Dr. Neil, QC, Calgary-Nose Hill (PC) Calahasen, Pearl, Lesser Slave Lake (PC) Campbell, Robin, West Yellowhead (PC), Deputy Government Whip Chase, Harry B., Calgary-Varsity (L), Official Opposition Whip Dallas, Cal, Red Deer-South (PC) Danyluk, Hon. Ray, Lac La Biche-St.

Paul (PC), Minister of Municipal Affairs DeLong, Alana, Calgary-Bow (PC) Denis, Jonathan, Calgary-Egmont (PC) Doerksen, Arno, Strathmore-Brooks (PC) Drysdale, Wayne, Grande Prairie-Wapiti (PC) Elniski, Doug, Edmonton-Calder (PC) Evans, Hon. Iris, Sherwood Park (PC), Minister of Finance and Enterprise Fawcett, Kyle, Calgary-North Hill (PC) Forsyth, Heather, Calgary-Fish Creek (PC) Fritz, Hon. Yvonne, Calgary-Cross (PC), Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs Goudreau, Hon.

Hector G., Dunvegan-Central Peace (PC), Minister of Employment and Immigration Griffiths, Doug, Battle River-Wainwright (PC), Parliamentary Assistant, Agriculture and Rural Development Groeneveld, Hon. George, Highwood (PC), Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Hancock, Hon. Dave, QC, Edmonton-Whitemud (PC), Minister of Education, Government House Leader Hayden, Hon. Jack, Drumheller-Stettler (PC), Minister of Infrastructure Hehr, Kent, Calgary-Buffalo (

L) Horne, Fred, Edmonton-Rutherford (PC) Horner, Hon. Doug, Spruce Grove-Sturgeon-St. Albert (PC), Minister of Advanced Education and Technology Jablonski, Hon. Mary Anne, Red Deer-North (PC), Minister of Seniors and Community Supports Jacobs, Broyce, Cardston-Taber-Warner (PC) Johnson, Jeff, Athabasca-Redwater (PC) Johnston, Art, Calgary-Hays (PC) Kang, Darshan S., Calgary-McCall (

L) Klimchuk, Hon. Heather, Edmonton-Glenora (PC), Minister of Service Alberta Knight, Hon. Mel, Grande Prairie-Smoky (PC), Minister of Energy Leskiw, Genia, Bonnyville-Cold Lake (PC) Liepert, Hon. Ron, Calgary-West (PC), Minister of Health and Wellness Lindsay, Hon. Fred, Stony Plain (PC), Solicitor General and Minister of Public Security Lukaszuk, Thomas A., Edmonton-Castle Downs (PC), Parliamentary Assistant, Municipal Affairs Lund, Ty, Rocky Mountain House (PC) MacDonald, Hugh, Edmonton-Gold Bar (

L) Marz, Richard, Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills (PC) Mason, Brian, Edmonton-Highlands-Norwood (NDP), Leader of the NDP Opposition McFarland, Barry, Little Bow (PC) McQueen, Diana, Drayton Valley-Calmar (PC), Parliamentary Assistant, Environment Morton, Hon. F.L., Foothills-Rocky View (PC), Minister of Sustainable Resource Development Notley, Rachel, Edmonton-Strathcona (NDP), Deputy Leader of the NDP Opposition, NDP Opposition House Leader Oberle, Frank, Peace River (PC), Government Whip Olson, Verlyn, QC, Wetaskiwin-Camrose (PC) Ouellette, Hon.

Luke, Innisfail-Sylvan Lake (PC), Minister of Transportation Pastoor, Bridget Brennan, Lethbridge-East (L), Deputy Official Opposition Whip Prins, Ray, Lacombe-Ponoka (PC) Quest, Dave, Strathcona (PC) Redford, Hon. Alison M., QC, Calgary-Elbow (PC), Minister of Justice and Attorney General Renner, Hon. Rob, Medicine Hat (PC), Minister of Environment, Deputy Government House Leader Rodney, Dave, Calgary-Lougheed (PC) Rogers, George, Leduc-Beaumont-Devon (PC) Sandhu, Peter, Edmonton-Manning (PC) Sarich, Janice, Edmonton-Decore (PC), Parliamentary Assistant, Education Sherman, Dr.

Raj, Edmonton-Meadowlark (PC), Parliamentary Assistant, Health and Wellness Snelgrove, Hon. Lloyd, Vermilion-Lloydminster (PC), President of the Treasury Board Stelmach, Hon. Ed, Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville (PC), Premier, President of Executive Council Stevens, Hon. Ron, QC, Calgary-Glenmore (PC), Deputy Premier, Minister of International and Intergovernmental Relations Swann, Dr. David, Calgary-Mountain View (L), Leader of the Official Opposition Taft, Dr. Kevin, Edmonton-Riverview (

L) Tarchuk, Hon. Janis, Banff-Cochrane (PC), Minister of Children and Youth Services Taylor, Dave, Calgary-Currie (

L) VanderBurg, George, Whitecourt-Ste. Anne (PC) Vandermeer, Tony, Edmonton-Beverly-Clareview (PC) Weadick, Greg, Lethbridge-West (PC) Webber, Len, Calgary-Foothills (PC), Parliamentary Assistant, Energy Woo-Paw, Teresa, Calgary-Mackay (PC) Xiao, David H., Edmonton-McClung (PC), Parliamentary Assistant, Employment and Immigration Zwozdesky, Hon. Gene, Edmonton-Mill Creek (PC), Minister of Aboriginal Relations, Deputy Government House Leader Officers and Officials of the Legislative Assembly Clerk W.J. David McNeil Clerk Assistant/ Director of House Services Louise J.

Kamuchik Clerk of Journals/Table Research Micheline S. Gravel Senior Parliamentary Counsel Robert H. Reynolds, QC Senior Parliamentary Counsel Shannon Dean Sergeant-at-Arms Brian G. Hodgson Assistant Sergeant-at-Arms J. Ed Richard Assistant Sergeant-at-Arms William C. Semple Managing Editor of Alberta Hansard Liz Sim

February 11, 2009 Alberta Hansard 7 Legislative Assembly of Alberta Title: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 1:30 p.m. 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, February 11, 2009 [The Speaker in the chair] head: Prayers The Speaker: Good afternoon. Welcome back. Let us pray. Grant that we the members of our province’s Legislature fulfill our office with honesty and integrity. May our first concern be for the good of all of our citizens. Let us be guided by these principles in our deliberations this day and every day. Amen. Please be seated. head: Introduction of Guests The Speaker: The hon. Minister of Aboriginal Relations. Mr.

Zwozdesky: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. What a great pleasure it is to introduce to you and through you some of Alberta’s very brightest students who are here today from my constituency, from the wonderful Donnan elementary school. There are two classroom groups here vis iting us today with their teachers and group leaders Ms Fiona White, Mr. Larry Goodwin, Mrs. Donna Machinski, Mrs. Claire Titus, Mr. Cory Packard, Miss Danielle Belanger, Miss Tennille Oppen, Mrs. Nadine Oszytko, Mrs. Jacquie Verenka, and Mrs. Melinda Robertson.

I would ask all of the students, their teachers, and their helpers to please rise, and why don’t the rest of us greet them with a warm welcome. Thank you for coming. The Speaker: The hon. Minister of Education. Mr. Hancock: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It’s a pleasure for me as well to introduce to you and through you to members of the Assembly 29 grade 6 students from Westbrook elementary school located in my constituency of Edmonton-Whitemud. Accompanying the students is their teacher, Chantel Oswald, along with parent helpers Mrs. Shelley Richmond and Mr. Rami Bader.

All of the grade 6 students from this class have been currently participating in the School at the Legislature program in this school year. Mr. Speaker, I recently had the privilege of visiting Westbrook school and speaking with four classes of grade 6 students, and I can assure you that they ask the best questions on all of the relevant current issues. They raised excellent questions. They’re very engaged. The School at the Legislature program is doing well for these students. My guests are seated in the members’ gallery, Mr.

Speaker, and I’d ask them to please rise and receive the traditional warm welcome of the Assembly. The Speaker: I suspect that the answers were of equal quality. The hon. Minister of Justice and Attorney General. Ms Redford: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have one very special introduction this afternoon. It is a great pleasure today for me to introduce to you and through you to members of this Assembly Mr. Hunter Wight. Many members will likely know Hunter from his role at Mount Royal College as vice-president of external relations, which happens to be in my constituency of Calgary-Elbow.

I’d ask all members to join me in extending the warm welcome of this Assembly to Mr. Wight. The Speaker: The hon. Member for Edmonton-Calder. Mr. Elniski: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is my pleasure to rise today to introduce to you and through you to the members of this Assembly two very important people from Covenant Health: Mr. Patrick Dumelie, president and CEO, and Dr. John Brennan, board chair. They’re here today to raise awareness for the World Day of the Sick, which occurs every year on February 11.

This day acts as a reminder to Catholics to ensure that people in need have special quality access to health care. It is also created to promote reflection and appreciation of the importance of each volunteer and individual effort to heal the sick. On Monday, February 9, I attended an event at St. Joseph’s Basilica for Covenant Health celebrating their missioning. Over 400 people attended this event, including the hon. Premier and the hon. Member for Edmonton-Meadowlark.

I would like to thank Covenant Health for their work in spreading their message and their awareness and ask these two gentlemen to rise to receive the traditional warm greeting of the Assembly. The Speaker: The hon. Member for Lethbridge-West. Mr. Weadick: Thank you very much. I’d like to take this opportu- nity to introduce to you and through you to all the members of this Assembly a fine young man from Lethbridge, Alberta, Mr. Luke Malcolm. He’s a student at the University of Lethbridge, lives in my riding, is very involved in politics and all sorts of good things on campus and in the community.

He’s studying finance and political science and finishes his degree this year. I’d like to pass on a warm welcome to Luke if he’d just rise, please. The Speaker: The hon. Member for Calgary-North Hill. Mr. Fawcett: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I’d like to introduce to you and through you definitely the most beautiful person in this Assembly: my girlfriend, Ashley Millar. As many of the members know, in this job you need to have a strong support system, and Ashley has been with me since – we actually had our first date a year and a half ago today. She wanted to come and see what we actually do here.

I would like the Assembly to give her the traditional warm welcome of this House. Thank you. The Speaker: The hon. Leader of the Official Opposition. Dr. Swann: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. It’s my pleasure today to introduce a friend and supporter in my constituency office, Mr. Marcel Durand, president of the constituency, in fact a great, thoughtful, and committed person for democracy and for the future of this province. I’d ask him to stand and receive the welcome of this Assembly. Mr. Liepert: Mr.

Speaker, it’s my pleasure today to introduce to you and through you to members of the Assembly my constituency assistant from my Calgary-West constituency. Laura Wells is in the gallery, and I’d ask that she rise and receive the applause of the members. head: Members’ Statements The Speaker: The hon. Member for Edmonton-Decore.

Alberta Hansard February 11, 20098 Alberta Initiative for School Improvement Mrs. Sarich: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This past week Albertan innovation proved second to none as educators came together to showcase new ideas for improving student learning. On February 9 and 10 teachers, school administrators, sc hool board trustees, parents, and community members participated in the eighth annual Alberta initiative for school improvement, or AISI, conference. The conference showcased over 50 creative, locally tailored projects developed by school jurisdictions from across Alberta.

These projects ranged from focusing on technology and literacy to at-risk students and high school completion. The 2009 AISI conference was a great success. Over 800 people attended, including government and school representatives from Alberta-accredited schools in Macau and Hong Kong, who came to experience the outstanding work of our schools. The 2009 confer- ence marked the end of AISI cycle 3, and school jurisdictions are now in the planning process for cycle 4. AISI has become an important part of maintaining Alberta’s position as a leader in learning.

It has changed the way the education system works to improve student learning and achievement. Mr. Speaker, I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to recognize all the partners in AISI and all those involved in this year’s conference. Their commitment and dedication to AISI is the reason this initiative is such a success and has such a positive impact on student learning in our great province. Thank you. Charles Darwin’s Birthday Bicentennial Dr. Brown: Mr. Speaker, February 12 marks the bicentennial of the birth of a remarkable naturalist and scientist, Charles Darwin.

Charles Robert Darwin was born in the small English town of Shrewsbury in 1809. In 1831 as a 22-year old Cambridge graduate he set sail on a five-year voyage on His Majesty’s Ship the Beagle, a voyage which gave him new insights into the nature of living things and which would change the course of biological sciences forever. On this voyage Darwin’s keen observations led him to notice relationships of fossil species and living species of animals.

On the Galapagos Islands he noted that each island in the small archipelago was inhabited by tortoises with different-shape shells and by closely related finches, differentiated by the dimensions of their bills. These and many other observations led Darwin to discover natural selection as the fundamental force in the evolution of species.

Darwin knew that these ideas would challenge the religious dogma of those days, and he did not publish his conclusions until 1858 when a contemporary biologist, Alfred Russel Wallace, was independently developing the same ideas. 1:40 In 1859 he published his most famous book, On the Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection . This epic-making work quickly sold out, went through five more editions, and at the time was both violently attacked and energetically defended but in the end was almost universally accepted by the scientific world.

Since his death his ideas have been vindicated by modern fields of science, including paleontology, taxonomy, biogeography, animal behaviour, and especially by genetics and the ability to read the genome of man and other living creatures. Charles Darwin died on April 19, 1882, and was buried in Westminster Abbey, where he reposes amongst the greatest minds of the English-speaking world. The Speaker: The hon. Member for Calgary-North Hill. Voter Participation Mr. Fawcett: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Voter apathy continues to be a big concern not only to me but to many Albertans.

In fact, I have received correspondence from several constituents expressing their concern regarding voter apathy, particularly among younger Albertans, and they have suggested a number of ways to help make the electoral process more inclusive, from the creation of a citizens’ assembly on electoral reform to the introduction of proportional representation. It is well known that in the last election only 41 per cent of eligible Albertans cast their ballots. This is certainly a challenge that is complex yet important to the future of this province.

It’s tempting to look for quick-fix solutions, but we must take a more balanced, steady, and ultimately conciliatory approach to this challenge. We must do whatever we can to encourage young people to become involved in communities and in the election of governments even if that means looking at new and innovative ideas within our current government and democratic processes. However, Mr. Speaker, I also challenge more young people to take the lead and be the first of their friends and peers to become involved in what I consider to be the purest and most fundamental democratic institution in our political system.

The concept of political parties is a mechanism to mobilize similar-minded individu- als in the form of a formal electoral coalition, and I mean formal electoral coalition, not an unelected coalition, which we were recently exposed to. I would encourage the many young people in Alberta that are frustrated to get involved in these institutions. It is this action that I believe will have the greatest impact on the future of this province.

With both sides working together, more of Al- berta’s young people will see the value in investing in the mecha- nisms of government and democracy that will help ensure future success for all Albertans. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Speaker: The hon. Member for Calgary-Buffalo. International Disability Film Festival Mr. Hehr: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Last week I had the opportu- nity to take

part in the eighth annual Picture This international disability awards festival. Picture This is Canada’s first and biggest international disability film festival. It promotes films that focus on any area of disability culture as well as films on any subject that are produced, directed, or written by a person with a disability. The basic idea is to create a greater understanding of the culture of people with disabilities. It is also an excellent opportunity for the cultural community in Calgary to connect with others ar ound the world and to promote an international understanding of these issues.

This excellent festival is organized by the Calgary Scope Society, a nonprofit organization that has been improving the lives of persons with developmental disabilities in the Calgary area for over 25 years. I was thrilled with this gala evening, and I’m sure the Minister of Seniors and Community Supports, whom I was pleased to see in attendance, also appreciated this amazing event. It was held at La Joie de Vivre, a wonderful, accessible venue, and I thank the hosts for their hard work and help.

Supporting these kinds of initiatives, events that are both fun and worthwhile, is one of the things I enjoy most about representing downtown Calgary. Furthermore, projects that raise awareness about the challenges and experience of individuals with disabilities in Calgary, in our province, and, in fact, around the world are an important part of building inclusive communities. This event helps us all recognize the true strength of our diverse cultures, and I want

February 11, 2009 Alberta Hansard 9 to congratulate all the filmmakers for their sterling efforts. Each one has made a significant contribution to our artistic heritage. Picture This also tours in Edmonton, Red Deer, Lethbridge, and rural Alberta, so I strongly encourage Albertans to watch for it. You’ll have a great experience. The Speaker: The hon. Member for Strathmore-Brooks. EarthRenew Manure Processing Facility Mr. Doerksen: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to speak of an important and exciting bioenergy innovation taking pl ace in my riding of Strathmore-Brooks.

As Albertans are doing their part to reduce greenhouse gases, an Alberta-based company is taking the lead in environmental stewardship in our agriculture sector. One week ago today I attended the official opening of EarthRenew’s Strathmore 1, the first agricultural waste processing plant of its kind in the world. Strathmore 1 is located at Cattleland Feedyards and is owned and operated by EarthRenew, a privately funded Calgary- based company that continues to grow throughout North America with new facilities under construction in western Canada, California, and the U.S. Midwest.

An industrial gas-powered turbine cooks cattle waste – feedlot manure, the proverbial – to 530 degrees, in the process killing all weed seeds and pathogens while preserving the all-natural organic matter. Organic matter fertilizer is a product used to increase yields for organic and our conventional farming. The output from the efficient gas-powered turbine generates enough electricity for approximately 3,000 homes and r ecaptures 80 per cent of the fuel used for the further process.

EarthRenew’s Strathmore 1 employs 20 staff, and in total this operation expects to invest about $3 million this year in labour and supplies in the Strathmore economy. In addition, this plant achieves a substantial reduction in carbon emissions, up to 100,000 tonnes per year, by processing the proverbial. This green, cutting-edge technology illustrates the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit so important to Alberta’s success. I look forward to further application of this technology in other areas of our province. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Speaker: The hon. Member for Calgary-Lougheed. John Kucera Mr.

Rodney: Well, thank you, Mr. Speaker. This past weekend John Kucera of Calgary skied his way into the history books. He became the first Canadian man to win the downhill gold medal at the world alpine championships in Val d’Isère, France. John started second and crossed the finish line after a breathtaking and nearly flawless two minutes, seven and one one-hundredth seconds. He then had to wait patiently while each of the world’s best downhillers tried and failed to beat his time. Kucera’s tight line down the mountain was the difference between him and his closest competitor, who was only .04 seconds behind.

John was born in Calgary to parents who had recently immigrated from the Czech Republic. In order to fund his skiing, they took out a second mortgage on their home, and was it ever worth it. The young Kucera made his World Cup debut at age 20 on home snow in Lake Louise in November 2004, and just two years later at the very same location he won his first World Cup GS. John’s most recent win comes exactly one year before the opening of the Vancouver-Whistler Olympics and the games’ first medal event, coincidentally the men’s downhill. The path to the podium starts in this province, Mr. Speaker.

Our Alberta government has committed nearly a hundred million dollars to renew Olympic legacy facilities at Canada Olympic Park and the Canmore Nordic Centre. Funding also supports the building of Canada’s first centre of sports excellence, and Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame will soon call the city of Calgary home, with the govern- ment of Alberta as an integral partner. Because of these provincial projects and efforts like those of John Kucera, I believe that Canadians will win Olympic gold on Canadian soil for the first time next year. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. head: Introduction of Bills The Speaker: The hon.

Minister of Justice and Attorney General. Bill 2 Lobbyists Amendment Act, 2009 Ms Redford: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to request leave to introduce Bill 2, the Lobbyists Amendment Act, 2009. The Lobbyists Act prohibits individuals from providing paid advice to government at the same time and on the same issue as they are paid to lobby government. Amendments in Bill 2 will strengthen and clarify the application of this prohibition against a dual role.

Amendments will also limit the concept of associated persons, so spouses are not included, and will add to the list of individuals who are considered to be public office holders. Along with some housekeeping amendments Bill 2 also gives the Ethics Commis- sioner authority to disclose information when necessary to enforce administrative penalties. Bill 2 will enhance the functioning and enforceability of the Lobbyists Act and ensure it meets the needs of Albertans. Thank you. [Motion carried; Bill 2 read a first time] 1:50head: Oral Question Period The Speaker: First Official Opposition main question. The hon.

Leader of the Official Opposition. Global Economic Downturn Dr. Swann: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. We are six months into one of the worst economic downturns in our history. Albertans are anxious about their jobs, investments, and opportunities, looking for leadership – clear, strong leadership – on the economic woes that are hitting Albertans hard. In the last two months we’ve seen 20,000 jobs lost. To the Premier: why hasn’t the government acted decisively to support these people, getting them back to work as soon as possible? Mr. Stelmach: Mr.

Speaker, first of all, allow me to congratulate the newly elected Leader of the Official Opposition. Mr. Speaker, I also wish to express feeling toward those that have lost their jobs in the province of Alberta. That’s why we’ve articulated a three-point plan to ensure that we move very decisively during this difficult period. Part of that, of course, is tightening our belt during these economic times, looking at our spending. We will continue to invest in people and infrastructure and make sure that our economy is ready to bounce back when things improve.

Most importantly, we will draw down on the emergency savings that we’ve set aside especially for times like these.

Alberta Hansard February 11, 200910 The Speaker: The hon. leader. Dr. Swann: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Given that just last week the Premier announced tax credits for parts of the oil and gas sector, will he take immediate similar action with other struggling sectors in the province? Mr. Stelmach: With respect to any tax credit announcements, there weren’t any. I made a commitment at the very same speech that the hon. leader was at to work with the oil and gas industry. They’re in a credit crunch.

They cannot access capital, and that translates to significant job losses not only in Calgary, not only in Edmonton but in every small community in this province right down to the tire shop, down to the motel and the restaurant. That’s why we’re working with the oil industry to make sure that we provide the right environment for them to move ahead and create jobs in Alberta. Dr. Swann: Many thousands recently laid off and many thousands more who feel increasingly fearful and vulnerable need to see action today. They need certainty. When can they expect real action from this government? Mr. Stelmach: Mr.

Speaker, we’ve taken action. Part of that is the fact that we’re the only jurisdiction that I know of in North America that actually has cash set aside for situations like this, so that’s really good planning on our part. Secondly, we’re committed, as I said before, to investing in people programs: retraining, making sure that we have the skills necessary as we come out of this recession, that we have the people in place to fill the many job vacancies that will be here. In terms of specifics, other ministers can give all of the specifics with respect to the programs we have.

The Speaker: Second Official Opposition main question. The hon. Leader of the Official Opposition. Health Care Spending Dr. Swann: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. At a point where this government needs to show confidence and sound, responsible leadership, the Ministry of Health and Wellness is projecting a $1.3 billion deficit. To the Premier: how can the Premier account for this to Albertans? Mr. Stelmach: Mr. Speaker, as far as the accounting of last year’s expenses, that goes to the Public Accounts Committee, and they’ll review that.

But I just want to clearly state to Albertans that we are committed to publicly funded health care in this province, and we’re committed to the principles of the Canada Health Act. Dr. Swann: Mr. Speaker, we’re talking about sound fiscal manage- ment of our health system. It’s very clear that there has been no plan or foresight in our health reforms. Does the Premier himself or the minister take responsibility for this astonishing financial fiasco? Mr. Stelmach: Mr. Speaker, the current budget in health is over $13 billion. That’s about $36 million a day.

I’ve asked the minister to work with our health care provid ers – the doctors, the nurses, the professionals – to come together and put on the table opportunities to gain efficiencies, improve access, improve quality of care in this province. I think there’s a lot of money. Let’s make sure that we’re getting the best value for the dollar that’s there. We have to improve programs. We’ll certainly do that, but overall I’m looking to health care providers to join us, because we’re in this together, and deliver a plan that will build those three objectives that I talked about. Dr.

Swann: Does the Premier believe he has the confidence of Albertans in relation to a related critical service Albertans have come to stake their lives upon? I’m referring to the restructuring plan for the ambulance system. How much is that going to cost? Mr. Stelmach: Mr. Speaker, in working with municipalities, our health minister is working towards, of course, the government taking over these services and is working very hard. To the specifics, the minister can answer that directly. The Speaker: The hon. minister to supplement. Mr. Liepert: Mr.

Speaker, I think what we need to do is not look at the transfer of governance and funding for ambulance as a cost but an improvement in efficiencies. We have already budgeted – it’s in the budget that was passed in this House last year – the allocation for the transfer of ambulance services. As I say, I think we need to look at this as part of efficiencies. The Speaker: Third Official Opposition main question. The hon. Member for Calgary-Currie. Provincial Budget Release Mr. Taylor: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

People the world over are scared by this fast and deepening recession, and they’re looking to their governments for leadership, leadership that will make people feel confident again. This government continues to dither and delay the budget and won’t provide Albertans with a date for its release. British Columbia and Saskatchewan already have release dates for their budgets. To the Minister of Finance and Enterprise: when will the minister be releasing her budget? Ms Evans: Mr.

Speaker, as everybody in this Assembly knows, the date of budget release is something that we do not announce until we’re prepared to come forward with a budget and table it for Albertans. That should not breed any disrespect or lack of confi- dence among Albertans.

That, in fact, should state quite clearly, as the Premier has articulated, that we look first at the federal budget, that we’re watching very closely what the Americans, who are our largest market for exports, are doing, what the outcomes are from a number of the issues that we have been working on resolving both with Canada and with other governments. We’re monitoring very carefully on a daily basis exactly what’s happening in the most volatile time in our history for the economy. The Speaker: The hon. member. Mr. Taylor: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Given that cities, universi- ties, schools, hospitals, and for that matter a lot of private businesses and not-for-profits are impeded in their own planning as they wait for this government to release its budget, will the minister admit that any further delays will only worsen the situation and commit to releasing the budget this month? Ms Evans: Mr. Speaker, I will not commit to releasing the budget this month. I think our Premier has articulated the three-point plan we’re working on.

Those kinds of assurances of reduced spending, of looking at our budget prudently, of looking at what the other circumstances are as we look over the global economy and the things that I’ve just cited should give Albertans the confidence that we’re acting responsibly. Our throne speech yesterday and the people in this Assembly that want to sp eak to it will I think convey the

February 11, 2009 Alberta Hansard 11 confidence we feel in Albertans for the outcomes that will follow with or without that budget within the next couple of months. Mr. Taylor: Within the next couple of months, Mr. Speaker? Given that briefly two years ago this government did commit to releasing its budget in February, two weeks following the throne speech, and last year that got delayed because the election got in the way, is the minister proposing to this House th is year that she’s going to wait until the recession is out of the way? Ms Evans: Mr.

Speaker, obviously, the member opposite knows exactly what every Albertan no doubt knows, and that is that last year in July we had $147 oil. Last year in August we were anticipat- ing that we would have much higher surpluses than were obvious and have continued to be obvious over this period of time. I think that Albertans, being sensible people, will want us to get the story as right as possible in this budget rather than rush it. The Speaker: The hon. leader of the third party. Global Economic Downturn (continued) Mr. Mason: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker.

Around the world governments of all political stripes are recognizing that we face the greatest economic threat since the Dirty Thirties. These govern- ments are making major commitments to restart their economies and put their people back to work. This is happening everywhere, Mr. Speaker, everywhere except in Alberta. Why has this Premier, almost alone among political leaders, ignored the rising storm and left Alberta families to fend for themselves? 2:00 Mr. Stelmach: Mr.

Speaker, the big difference between the province of Alberta and the other jurisdictions is that we are not going to put the next generation back in debt. Those are his friends. That’s not prudent budgeting on behalf of this government, so we’re not going to follow the advice of that individual or any other government. We will do our own budget based on the most r ecent evidence we have both from the federal government and from the United States, and we’re going to make a budget that ensures that we don’t again put the next generation in debt. Mr. Mason: Mr.

Speaker, while upgrader after upgrader gets cancelled in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland, those in the U.S. are still building. Entirely dependent on Alberta bitumen these U.S. projects are stealing Alberta jobs. It’s a crime, and this government is driving the getaway car. Why won’t this Premier keep his promise to end the export of unprocessed bitumen together with thousands of Alberta jobs down that pipeline? Mr. Stelmach: Mr. Speaker, I made a commitment some time ago in terms of upgrading our resources in Alberta.

As a government we remain committed, and we will very soon be communicating the plan in terms of how we’re going to add value to our resources. It’s not only in the oil sands but forestry and agriculture, by the way, where we’ve taken just a monumental step, the only jurisdiction, I believe, in Canada to take the leadership we have in agriculture and selling that product around the world. The Speaker: The hon. leader. Mr. Mason: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. This government is a deer in the headlights. Faced with looming economic disaster, it doesn’t know which way to turn.

This economic crisis is like an 18-wheeler bearing down on Albertans. Will this Premier give his head a shake and take immediate measures to create real jobs before Alberta families become roadkill? Mr. Stelmach: Mr. Speaker, I don’t know why it’s so difficult to get through to some on that side of the House that we’re the only jurisdiction in North America that is debt free and the only jurisdic- tion to have cash in hand to help deal with this critical global recession. There is no other jurisdiction. Let’s use the resources wisely and not allow it to drop through our fingers. We have time to budget prudently.

We will. We’ll do whatever we can on our part to make sure that we take care of all Albertans. The Speaker: The hon. Member for Edmonton-Ellerslie, followed by the hon. Member for Lethbridge-East. Employment Supports Mr. Bhardwaj: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Hardly a day goes by when we don’t hear about another company laying off its workers. My question is to the Minister of Employment and Immigration. What is the government doing to create new jobs in this province? The Speaker: The hon. minister. Mr. Goudreau: Well, thank you very much, Mr. Speaker.

Although we are seeing some increases in unemployment, we know that Alberta’s labour market will remain quite strong for many years to come. With unemployment rates around the 4 per cent level, at least statistically that’s still a very, very tight labour market. Individuals need to move around the province to be able to find additional opportunities. As the hon. member knows, it’s really not the government’s role to create new jobs, but it is our role to create the environment in which the private sector might create jobs. The Speaker: The hon. member. Mr. Bhardwaj: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The fact remains that there are people who are out of work, including many from Edmon- ton. What are you doing to support them? The Speaker: The hon. minister. Mr. Goudreau: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To help those who are not working, my department helps workers find other jobs now or train for jobs in the future. We connect the unemployed people with employers through proactive workforce adjustment strategies such as recruitment fairs. Just today, for example, we’re connecting potential workers with Wilco Industries. They are looking for workers in one of our Edmonton offices.

We assist the unemployed with career planning, some job searching skills, resumé preparation, and job interview skills. The Speaker: The hon. member. Mr. Bhardwaj: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My final question to the same minister: are you taking any specific steps to support our most vulnerable citizens or underrepresented groups in the workforce?

Alberta Hansard February 11, 200912 Mr. Goudreau: Mr. Speaker, yes is the answer. Very specifically, we are offering training partnerships between employers and aboriginal people, for instance. As an example, that includes our aboriginal training to employment programs, which has now more than 50 projects on the go. We do support people with disabilities in their quest for training and employment by providing them with supports such as assisted services and technologies. We support immigrants by assessing how their foreign qualifications compare to Alberta standards.

We’ll also still be offering some summer employment programs to give our young people meaningful employment opportunities. The Speaker: The hon. Member for Lethbridge-East, followed by the hon. Member for Drayton Valley-Calmar. Pharmaceutical Benefit for Seniors Ms Pastoor: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. With the economic times that we are facing, middle fixed-income seniors feel that they’re under attack because of the government’s proposed changes to the pharmaceutical coverage for seniors in Alberta.

To the Minister of Health and Wellness: does the minister admit that the proposed plan for seniors’ pharmaceutical coverage is flawed and will disadvantage seniors on fixed middle incomes when they have seen a significant decrease through no fault of their own in their RRSPs? Mr. Liepert: Mr. Speaker, the pharmaceutical strategy that was announced last fall clearly is part of aligning the health system.

All of the government assistance programs – and let’s ensure that we understand that this is a government assistance program; this is not something that is covered under the Canada Health Act – are aligned with income. What we have done is simply move the seniors’ pharmaceutical plan to align with other government programs. Ms Pastoor: Will the minister admit to Alberta seniors that many of them are going to be paying significantly more for their needed medications as compared to their former prescription plan and other provinces? Mr. Liepert: Mr.

Speaker, the fact is that some 50 to 60 per cent of seniors will actually pay less, and in many cases many seniors will not have to pay anything for their prescription drug plan. We can look at it as a half empty glass or a one-third empty glass as the member may be looking at it; I look at it as a benefit to those senior citizens who do need the assistance. Ms Pastoor: For those on middle fixed incomes would the minister consider raising the threshold so that more seniors would qualify for the zero per cent deductions? Mr. Liepert: Mr.

Speaker, there’s no question that since the program was designed and announced, we have seen quite a different situation relative to income in the environment we live in today. I have asked our folks to take a look at all aspects of the drug program. Let’s keep in mind that nothing has changed; the imple- mentation date is January of 2010. We want to ensure that we’ve got it right. If there is a situation that has changed since that time, we want to re-examine it. The Speaker: The hon. Member for Drayton Valley-Calmar, followed by the hon. Member for Edmonton-Centre. Infrastructure Spending Mrs.

McQueen: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The global economy is in the midst of an uphill climb. Alberta is in a better position than most jurisdictions, but we are not immune to the current economic pressures. There has been a lot of talk about stimulus packages and job losses. My question is for the Minister of Transportation. What is his department doing to counteract these economic pressures and help to stimulate the Alberta economy? Mr. Ouellette: Mr.

Speaker, as you know, Alberta’s three-year capital plan is more than $23 billion – $23 billion – and as Minister of Transportation my job is to build the roads and other projects that Alberta needs. My department will be tendering projects and moving ahead with those jobs this year. As a government we believe it’s important to continue investing in our highway network, and that’s exactly what we’re going to do. 2:10 The Speaker: The hon. member. Mrs. McQueen: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

To the Minister of Infrastructure: can the minister comment on what Alberta Infrastruc- ture is doing despite the global economic downturn to stimulate infrastructure investment in Alberta? The Speaker: The hon. minister. Mr. Hayden: Well, thank you, Mr. Speaker. High levels of infrastructure investment are more important today than they’ve ever been before. We as a government will continue to be a leader in stimulating the economy with these activities in Alberta.

Alberta currently spends two to three times per capita that of any other province or territory in our nation and arguably more than anywhere else in North America. Our current three-year capital plan includes $5 billion for municipa lities for their infrastr ucture support, $3.3 billion for health facilities and equipment support, $1.6 billion for schools, and the list goes on and on. We continue to invest at top levels to help Albertans. Mrs. McQueen: Finally, Mr.

Speaker, to the Minister of Transporta- tion: can the minister elaborate on what initiatives will s upport construction activities in local communities? Mr. Ouellette: Well, Mr. Speaker, right now we’re working with the federal government and municipalities to move ahead with much-needed projects. Last month along with the federal govern- ment we announced the building Canada communities component. That program has already invested more than $76 million towards 22 municipal infrastructure projects throughout the province.

The funding will help all smaller communities throughout Alberta meet their pressing infrastructure needs, support economic growth, and help stimulate the economy, and then all these communities can still apply up until March 15 for much-needed programs for them. The Speaker: The hon. Member for Edmonton-Centre, followed by the hon. Member for Edmonton-Decore. Swan Hills Treatment Centre Ms Blakeman: Thanks very much, Mr. Speaker.

Albertans have learned two things since the fall session: one, that even large companies like Nortel fail and, two, this government consistently fails to require that enough money is held in reclamation funds to

February 11, 2009 Alberta Hansard 13 pay for the cost of the cleanup. My questions are to the Minister of Environment. Given the example of the Swan Hills waste treatment plant costing $71 million to clean up, double the amount set aside, what action is the government taking to boost other reclamation funding to realistic levels so that the cost of future clea nups are covered and not borne by the taxpayer? Mr. Renner: Mr.

Speaker, it’s important to consider when you look at reclamation not only the cost of the actual reclamation itself but the requirement that the taxpayer be responsible for the entire costs should it be n ecessary. The member is pointing out a worst-case scenario, where we have a situation where the taxpayer is ultimately responsible, but at the same time there are a number of other sites throughout the province that remain and will continue to be the responsibility of the owner of those sites, and in those cases it’s a different situation. The Speaker: The hon. member. Ms Blakeman: Thank you.

Back to the same minister. Well, given that if a company, whether it’s an oil sands developer, a coal mine, or a gravel pit, collapses, fails, goes bankrupt, goes under, their promissory note isn’t worth very much, why doesn’t the government ensure that enough cash is held so that any liability for cleanup does not revert back to the public? An IOU from a failed company is worth nothing, and it all defaults back to the taxpayer. Mr. Renner: Well, Mr. Speaker, it’s like everything else that we do in Environment: it’s a balancing act. It is necessary for us to hold security, and we do hold security.

We hold a significant amount of security, whether it be in cash or whether it be in irrevocable lines of credit that are backed up by banks. We have been working with industry to ensure that that level that we hold is appropriate and is adequate, and I can assure the member that there are ongoing discussions as we speak on ways that we can improve that program. The Speaker: The hon. member. Ms Blakeman: Thank you very much. Back to the same minister.

The annual report of the security fund states that for all the oil sands $645 million is held for reclamation, all in the form of guaranties, little IOUs, pieces of paper. Is the government telling us that these IOUs are sufficient to cover the cost of cleanup for the entire oil sands? Really, Mr. Minister? Mr. Renner: Mr. Speaker, let’s be clear. These are not IOUs. These are irrevocable lines of credit. These are notes that the province holds that are secured by the bank, not by the individual companies.

To answer the member’s question, we believe that we hold adequate security to ensure that we protect the public in case of long-term disaster from a financial perspective. The Speaker: The hon. Member for Edmonton-Decore, followed by the hon. Member for Calgary-Buffalo. Temporary Foreign Workers Mrs. Sarich: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In light of the downturn in our economy many employers and workers are confused a bout the requirements and options for temporary foreign workers and Canadian workers. My first question is for the Minister of Employ- ment and Immigration.

Is there still a need for temporary foreign workers when layoffs are happening? The Speaker: The hon. minister. Mr. Goudreau: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Our labour market is definitely changing, and we recognize that layoffs are happening in some businesses while others are still looking for people. The temporary foreign worker program is a federally run program, and it’s based on employers identifying and providing a need for workers in very specific occupations.

Temporary foreign workers still have a very, very important role to play in our workforce, but as employer needs change, so will the number of temporary foreign workers coming in. The Speaker: The hon. member. Mrs. Sarich: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My second question is to the same minister. If temporary foreign workers still have a role in our workforce alongside Canadians, how does the treatment differ? The Speaker: The hon. minister. Mr. Goudreau: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

We recognize that all workers make very valuable contributions to this province, including our temporary foreign workers, and these temporary foreign workers have the same rights as any other worker. They are all provided for and protected under a number of pieces of legislation that we have. Presently we’ve got ads that are running, campaigns to raise the awareness of temporary foreign workers’ rights in the workplace. Employers and workers can find a lot more on our website. The Speaker: The hon. member. Mrs. Sarich: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My final question is to the same minister.

What support does the government provide to temporary foreign workers who are having their hours cut back or losing their jobs? Mr. Goudreau: Mr. Speaker, we are hearing of that more and more. I want to indicate that temporary foreign workers can remain in Canada for the duration of their work permit and apply for work with other employers with federal hiring permits, or staff can assist in making those connections and in helping foreign workers move from one job to the other. If they cannot find work, one of the options is that they can return to their home country. Environmental Charges against Syncrude Mr.

Hehr: Today, Mr. Speaker, I hope to appeal to the Justice minister to take the necessary steps to protect Alberta’s wildlife and its habitat. Specifically, I was going to discuss

section 155 of the Alberta environmental protection act. My math tells me that a $500,000 fine is 1, 000 bucks a duck. Seeing that this is a multibillion-dollar industry, does the hon. minister figure that this maximum fine is an effective deterrent? The Speaker: The hon. minister. Ms Redford: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I believe that although the hon. member has addressed that question to me, this falls under the policy area of the Minister of Environment. The Speaker: The hon member has the floor.

Alberta Hansard February 11, 200914 Mr. Hehr: Okay. Anyway, I was asking about

section 155 and the maximum penalty allowed under there, which is $500,000. Do you think this is an effective m echanism for actually keeping this industry from being negligent? The Speaker: Hon. minister, the purpose of question period is not to solicit personal opinions. 2:20 Mr. Renner: As the member knows, the amount of fine that’s assessed is the responsibility of the courts. I want to remind this member that this case is before the courts.

As to the legislation itself and the policy with respect to fines I do believe that we have adequate penalties within our legislation to ensure that we can hold polluters responsible. Let’s not forget, Mr. Speaker, that there are two sides that need to be taken into account. One is the actual penalty itself, and one is the effects that these kinds of incidents have on the customers’ and the public’s perception of the way these companies do business. Mr.

Hehr: To the Minister of Environment: can you honestly tell me that a $500,000 fine to an indus try that is ma king billions of dollars in profits is adequate to actually keep these guys in check? Mr. Renner: Well, Mr. Speaker, using that kind of logic, one would say that a hundred dollar speeding ticket issued to an NHL hockey player has no effect. I would suggest that we don’t at this point in Alberta adjust our fines to the level of income. This is a piece of legislation that applies to all members of the public, and a $500,000 fine is a lot of money in my books. The Speaker: The hon.

Member for Edmonton-Strathcona, followed by the hon. Member for Whitecourt-Ste. Anne. Job Creation Ms Notley: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday at the same time that this government was delivering a throne speech full of vague platitudes, Millar Western laid off nearly 140 workers and warned them that more cuts were coming. This pulp and lumber company has been in business for more than a century, and this government has no strategy to help them with their workers. The only specific thing this government offered to people like these losing their jobs was Alberta Works counselling.

To the minister of employment: why have you failed these workers and left them struggling to feed their families? The Speaker: The hon. Minister of Employment and Immigration. Mr. Goudreau: Well, thank you, Mr. Speaker. The announcement certainly was made yesterday. We do as a government extend our greatest sympathy to the people who have lost their jobs because of these closures and to their families as well. We understand that the facility closures are a business decision based on market conditions and long-term corporate strategy.

We have been working with and have contacted people from Millar Western, and we are just assessing now and actually are working and seeing what we can do to help the staff cope. The Speaker: The hon. member. Ms Notley: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Well, in January we lost 5,700 jobs in Alberta. Instead of crea ting jobs, government is telling the unemployed that it’s going to make welfare more visible. What Albertans need are real, long-term jobs because, believe me, Alberta’s future generations will have debt if the only thing this government can offer their parents is resumé-writing courses.

To the same minister: will you push investment and stimulus spending that creates jobs at living wages instead of merely putting up more signs in our welfare offices? Mr. Goudreau: Mr. Speaker, a couple of things. One is that in January of this year we, in fact, had 23,000 more people working in the province of Alberta than we had a year ago in January.

Although our numbers in unemployment are increasing, I need to remind the hon. member that our unemployment levels at present stand at 4.4 per cent, and although we’re heading in the wrong direction, that is still considered a very, very tight employment situation. As I indicated, we still have a lot of companies looking for people. Ms Notley: Well, interestingly, this morning, Mr. Speaker, Grande Cache Coal gave walking papers to 100 employees, so clearly that’s not one of those companies.

Globally, meanwhile, at least $650 billion has been committed by governments to stimulus spending that will create real jobs. Even this government’s federal cousins were forced to pledge $12 billion for job-stimulating infrastructure, yet not one new job creation initiative was discussed yesterday by this government. To the same minister: do you really believe that all these laid-off workers need are directions to the nearest welfare office, and if not, why is that all that your government is offering? Mr. Goudreau: Mr.

Speaker, my responsibility as minister respon- sible for Employment and Immigration is to help people that are in need. We provide employment and training supports. We help with basic living and basic costs if that’s what’s required. We’ll cover some of their household costs. We’ll even support health benefits. We’ll do everything to try to transition those individuals from having lost their jobs into finding a new position. The Speaker: The hon. Member for Whitecourt-Ste. Anne, followed by the hon. Member for Calgary-Varsity. RCMP Traffic Enforcement Duties Mr. VanderBurg: Well, thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Recent media reports have suggested that the province is toying with ideas of pulling the RCMP from traffic duty on Alberta highways. The RCMP has had a long history in this province and serves my constituents in Whitecourt-Ste. Anne very well. I’d like to clarify these media reports when I go home this weekend. My questions are all to the Solicitor General and Minister of Public Security. Is the minister planning to replace the RCMP’s traffic services with Alberta sheriffs? The Speaker: The hon. minister. Mr. Lindsay: Well, thank you, Mr. Speaker. The short answer to that question is no, absolutely not.

What we are doing is testing four different service delivery models for traffic enforcement over a six- month period. This will help us to evaluate what works best on Alberta’s highways to ensure that those motorists remain safe. The RCMP will always have a role in traffic enforcement on Alberta highways, and they are in full support of these pilots. The Speaker: The hon. member.

February 11, 2009 Alberta Hansard 15 Mr. VanderBurg: Well, thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the same minister. Again, pilot projects are being announced throughout this province about some good working relationships between sheriffs and RCMP, but again my constituents in Whitecourt-Ste. Anne keep saying to me: is this the first step to replace the RCMP? Is this the first step, Mr. Minister? Mr. Lindsay: Mr. Speaker, I’ve said it many times, and I’ll say it again: we are not replacing the RCMP as Alberta’s provincial police force. We are proud to have them as our police force.

The RCMP are a very highly skilled force, which helps ensure safe and secure communities for all Albertans. The RCMP and our traffic sheriffs, however, regularly participate in joint forces traffic operations with local police services and other government ministries. This pilot is a good example of the excellent co-operation between the RCMP and our traffic sheriffs. Mr. VanderBurg: Well, again to the same minister. The traffic pilot projects are being done in some cases to enhance the services, but in other cases media reports said that it’s there only because of a cost-saving measure. Is this true or not? Mr.

Lindsay: Again, Mr. Speaker, these pilots are not about cost savings at all. What they are about is ensuring our highways are safe for all Albertans to travel on. Accidents on our highways cost over 450 lives last year and billions of dollars worth of expenses to our medical system. These pilots are aimed at improving our highway safety for all Albertans. The Speaker: The hon. Member for Calgary-Varsity, followed by the hon. Member for Athabasca-Redwater. Public-private Partnerships for School Construction Mr. Chase: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

The first contract for P3 schools was negotiated at the height of the boom, when materials and labour were at their most expensive. The government has claimed that P3s will save over a hundred million dollars, but those figures were made assuming inflated construction costs. Trustees, taxpayers, and opposition parties have no idea what the real cost of these schools will be over the contract’s 32-year lifespan. To the Minister of Infrastructure: why won’t the minister release documents showing the price tag for the construction and proposed 32-year maintenance of the first 18 P3 schools?

The Speaker: The hon. minister. Mr. Hayden: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. On our government web page we set out the conditions for payment throughout the contract. There is proprietary information that’s contained within the agree- ments. The last agreement that we did saved Alberta taxpayers $118 million, to be exact, based on comparative studies that are checked by third parties. It would disadvantage Albertans, the taxpayers, the people that are paying for this, to release information that would take the people that give us the best deals in the province out of the game. The Speaker: The hon. member. Mr.

Chase: Thank you. The minister is treating taxpayers like mushrooms under a load of we all know what. The contracts have already been signed. The competition is over. There is no need to hide the details. Given the current economic downturn and the lengthy delays in construction does the Minister of Infrastructure still claim that these schools are being built faster and cheaper than they would have been through traditional methods? Mr. Hayden: Mr. Speaker, absolutely. Mr. Chase: Table the documents. So far it’s all chat, and we all know what that’s worth.

Given that the costs of labour and materials have fallen, will the government reconsider using P3 financing for its second phase of building 14 schools? Mr. Hayden: Mr. Speaker, our government will take a look at every innovative way to provide infrastructure to Albertans, including P3s and everything else. Those things that work best for Albertans to deliver to Albertans in an effective, efficient, time-sensitive manner those facilities that they need: that’s what we’ll use, sir. The Speaker: The hon. Member for Athabasca-Redwater, followed by the hon.

Member for Calgary-Buffalo. 2:30 Air and Water Quality of Industrial Development Mr. Johnson: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday during the throne speech we heard that this government is committed to develop energy with environmental care, and we’ve heard that an oil sands strategy is coming, but we also have areas of the province that are involved in upgrading and processing the crude. My question is to the Minister of Environment.

My constituents want to know what action your department takes in the Industrial Heartland to ensure residents are not forced to live with dirty air because they live close to industrial development. The Speaker: The hon. minister. Mr. Renner: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. As you know, some time ago we announced that we would establish through policy and legislation eventually overall emissions targets and thresholds that would be applied through a process of cumulative effect manage- ment in the Industrial Heartland. Just last month we finalized the targets for SO 2 and NOx. Those targets are now in place.

It will be up to industry working in partnership with Environment to ensure that we’re able to expand the industrial activity within that region but still live within those predetermined caps for air emissions. The Speaker: The hon. member. Mr. Johnson: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. To the same minister. Water is also clearly a priority as water for life was profiled in the throne speech yesterday. Can you tell my constituents what your department does to monitor the quality of our rivers, specifically water being returned from industry to the North Saskatchewan and the Athabasca? Mr. Renner: Well, Mr.

Speaker, like we have ambient air quality monitoring as it affects the overall quality of air, we also do similar kinds of monitoring on the overall quality of water in the river. There are really two levels of monitoring. One is at the site of the discharge, be it city of Edmonton municipal discharge or industrial discharge, to ensure that that discharge is within the allocations that have been determined in their approval. Then the other is to have ongoing monitoring in the river itself to ensure that we’re maintain- ing the quality of water within the river.

Alberta Hansard February 11, 200916 The Speaker: The hon. member. Mr. Johnson: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Again to the same minister. Some of my constituents echo that the water for life strategy is not just an environmental document but also an economic one. They’ve heard that a large majority of the North Saskatchewan’s water flow has been allocated, yet a very minor percentage is actually being used. Can the minister tell us why that is and how your department is working to ensure that a situ ation like this does not become a barrier to new opportunities for economic development? Mr. Renner: Well, Mr.

Speaker, that’s not uncommon. In years past when water licences were issued, there really wasn’t a lot of need to be concerned with whether or not the exact amount of allocation that was required was within that licence, and in fact for administrative ease I suspect that licences were issued that exceeded the amount to allow for expansion over time. At this point in time we’re looking at things a little differently, so one of the things that we need to work on over the next period of time is a better account- ing of the water that’s actually being used.

That will be very much a part of our go-forward strategy as we discuss water allocation policies. Environmental Charges against Syncrude (continued) Mr. Hehr: Mr. Speaker, on Monday evening on CBC radio I heard our hon. Justice minister discussing

section 155 of the Alberta environmental protection act and the $500,000 fine plus additional things judges may or may not do under the act. My math tells me that a $500,000 fine is a thousand bucks a duck. Can the minister tell me whether this fine plus any additional things judges may or may not do is reasonable to protect Alberta citizens under the act? The Speaker: Well, I’m going to repeat that personal opinion is not the purpose of question period. Ms Redford: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I submit that this question has been asked and answered. Mr.

Hehr: So, basically, is the hon. mi nister telling us that she’ll share her opinions with CBC radio and will not answer this question in this House right now? The Speaker: The hon. minister? The hon. member. Mr. Hehr: Fair enough. I’m done on this questioning if those are the answers we’re going to receive. The Speaker: The hon. Member for Wetaskiwin-Camrose, followed by the hon. Member for Edmonton-Gold Bar. Ambulance Services Mr. Olson: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. My questions today are for the Minister of Health and Wellness.

As part of the restructuring of the health care system communities have been given the option as to whether or not they would like to transfer their delivery of ambu- lance services over to provincial health services, the Alberta Health Services Board, as of April 1. The Camrose ambulance service, I believe, was one of the first to choose that option. I sense that there’s some anxiety developing over whether or not everybody’s going to be ready for the transfer on April 1. I’m wondering if the minister can advise as to whether or not this transfer of ambulance services can be ready by April 1. Mr. Liepert: Mr.

Speaker, the plan to transfer ambulance services is on track for April 1. As you know, we passed the Emergency Health Services Act in this H ouse last fall, which set out the regulatory framework for the new model. Alberta Health Services will shortly be ro lling out the dispatch plan, and that consolidates dispatch to three services from the current 10 or 12. So, yes, it is on track. The Speaker: The hon. member. Mr. Olson: Thank you. If I can maybe be a little more specific about what the concerns are for the local municipalities there.

Knowing that they may be ending the service, they’re having to terminate contracts. They are not able to budget for delivery of those services. So I’m just wondering if there’s a contingency plan in place for who will pay for that if we’re not ready on April 1. Mr. Liepert: Mr. Speaker, let’s be very clear that come April 1, if there is a municipality where there has been difficulty reaching agreement, whether they want to get out of the business or whether they want to contract with Alberta Health Services, there will be no interruption in patient care.

A municipality will have to make a decision whether they’re staying in the business or they’re not, keeping in mind that on April 1 funding for municipalities is going to be covered 100 per cent by the province on the basis that we have contracts in place. The Speaker: The hon. member. Mr. Olson: Thank you. I have a question about STARS. I think we’d all agree that STARS air ambulance is an integral part of the EMS team in Alberta, particularly from a rural point of view.

I’m just wondering if the minister can share with us any information on the status of STARS in terms of how it will be supported during the transition and after. Mr. Liepert: Well, I think it’s important, Mr. Speaker, that while each one of us has our favourite providers, if you might, and STARS is probably a favourite provider of many in this Assembly, we have a number of air ambulance service contracts. STARS is no different than any of the other providers that have contracts with Alberta Health Services. They all provide a very integral part of ambulance provision.

What we want to do initially is ensure that we get the ground ambulance right, and then we move on to discussions relative to the remainder of the services that are available. The Speaker: The hon. Member for Edmonton-Gold Bar. Temporary Foreign Workers (continued) Mr. MacDonald: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Given that over 20,000 Albertans have lost their jobs recently – as a matter of fact, 140 forestry workers in and around Whitecourt were laid off yesterday – my first question is to the Minister of Employment and Immigra- tion.

Why is the government of Alberta continuing to go abroad and recruit temporary foreign workers to this province? The Speaker: The hon. minister.

February 11, 2009 Alberta Hansard 17 Mr. Goudreau: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I think we need to recognize that although there are certainly people being laid off, those individuals as Albertans will always have first priority in terms of getting a job in this province. We automatically want to make sure that our priority goes to Al bertans first, then Canadians and those people who are normally not necessarily represented in the workforce, including some of our aboriginal communities.

Having said that, there are still some people out there and some jobs that remain unfilled, and we depend on the expertise and help of temporary foreign workers to fill those. 2:40 Mr. MacDonald: Again, Mr. Speaker, to the same minister: how can this government recruit more temporary foreign workers when steelworkers in Edmonton are being laid off, construction workers across the province are being laid off, forestry workers in Whitecourt are being laid off? Why are you undermining the job market here by recruiting more temporary foreign workers? Mr. Goudreau: Mr.

Speaker, I have to reiterate that the temporary foreign worker program is a federal program and not a provincial program. But the important thing to keep in mind is that before a temporary foreign worker position is approved, the employers have to go through a very stringent process of advertising and trying to find Canadians to fill those particular jobs. Only when those cannot happen can they be allowed to bring in a temporary foreign worker. Mr. MacDonald: Mr. Speaker, I remind the hon. minister that he is the Minister of Employment and Immigration. You’re in this up to your eyeballs.

Again, will the government terminate the temporary foreign worker program now, allow the workers that are here on the temporary foreign worker program to finish the time left on their visa? Considering the large number of Albertans that have been laid off, and these Albertans include landed immigrants, why don’t you protect landed immigrants and citizens of this country when they need job protection from you? Mr. Goudreau: Mr. Speaker, people from around the world are welcome in Alberta. Shutting the door to temporary foreign workers and immigration is not always the way to respond to economic challenges.

This province was built by immigrants. Immigration will continue to be our future source of economic growth and population growth, and we want them here. An Hon. Member: Don’t treat them like second-class citizens. Mr. Goudreau: We don’t. They have the same rights. The Speaker: Hon. members, we’re going to return to the Routine with Introduction of Bills. head: Introduction of Bills (continued) The Speaker: The hon. Member for Livingstone-Macleod. Bill 3 Credit Union Amendment Act, 2009 Mr. Berger: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request leave to introduce the Credit Union Amendment Act, 2009.

This legislation modernizes voting rules for credit unions by allowing members to vote for directors in advance of their annual general meeting. The amendment also makes minor administrative change that would give credit unions more flexibility in reporting requirements of credit union committees to their board. Thank you. [Motion carried; Bill 3 read a first time] The Speaker: The hon. Government House Leader. Mr. Hancock: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that Bill 3 be moved onto the Order Paper under Government Bills and Orders. [Motion carried] The Speaker: The hon. Member for Calgary-Montrose.

Bill 4 Post-secondary Learning Amendment Act, 2009 Mr. Bhullar: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request leave to introduce and move Bill 4, the Post-secondary Learning Amendment Act, 2009. Two amendments are being proposed. The first amendment ensures further consistency with the roles and mandates policy framework for publicly funded postsecondary institutions. The second amendment is a housekeeping matter relating to clarifying designation powers for graduate faculty councils and faculty councils.

The proposed amendments will allow b accalaureate and applied studies institutions to have the option of applying for the use of the term “university” in their names. They will also ensure further clarity around the governance of colleges offering degree programs. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. [Motion carried; Bill 4 read a first time] The Speaker: The hon. Government House Leader. Mr. Hancock: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move that Bill 4 be moved onto the Order Paper under Government Bills and Orders. [Motion carried] The Speaker: The hon. Member for Battle River-Wainwright.

Bill 5 Marketing of Agricultural Products Amendment Act, 2009 Mr. Griffiths: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to request leave to introduce the Marketing of Agricultural Products Amend- ment Act, 2009, the so-named Bill 5. This act will amend the Marketing of Agricultural Products Act. No substantial changes have been made to the act since 1987. The proposed legislation will update the act, simplify wording, eliminate duplication, and make minor amendments to clarify regulatory powers, including moving the review and appeal process into regulation.

The proposed amendments are the result of a review of the existing legislation and extensive industry consultation and will reduce the regulatory burden on producers and make the legislation easier to understand and use. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. [Motion carried; Bill 5 read a first time]

Alberta Hansard February 11, 200918 The Speaker: The hon. Government House Leader. Mr. Hancock: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would move that Bill 5 be moved onto the Order Paper under Government Bills and Orders. [Motion carried] The Speaker: The hon. Member for Calgary-Fish Creek. Bill 6 Protection of Children Abusing Drugs Amendment Act, 2009 Mrs. Forsyth: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m pleased to rise and introduce first reading of Bill 6, the Protection of Children Abusing Drugs Amendment Act, 2009.

A number of amendments to this legislation are proposed to address issues identified during the program’s implementation and subsequent operation. Feedback from parents, guardians, treatment program staff, police, and others indicates that the proposed amendments will enable the program to better support children and families.

The amendments include increasing the length of the confinement period from five days to 10 days for the purpose of expanding support services, enhancing the involvement of parents and guardians, addressing pressure on police transportation services, strengthening the review process, and allowing for the extension of a court order by an additional five days. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. [Motion carried; Bill 6 read a first time] The Speaker: The hon. Government House Leader. Mr. Hancock: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I would move that Bill 6 be moved onto the Order Paper under Government Bills and Orders. [Motion carried] The Speaker: The hon. Minister of Health and Wellness. Bill 7 Public Health Amendment Act, 2009 Mr. Liepert: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is my pleasure to rise today and introduce first reading of Bill 7, the Public Health Amendment Act, 2009.

This legislation supports the implementation of a new model for public health in the province, and the amendments include clarifying the role of the chief medical officer of health; transferring regulation-making authority for routine public health standards, guidelines, and rules to the Minist er of Health and Wellness; and providing for better communication with parents and their school- aged children about public health programs. It is my pleasure today to move first reading of Bill 7. [Motion carried; Bill 7 read a first time] The Speaker: The hon. Minister of Agriculture and Rural Develop- ment.

Bill 8 Feeder Associations Guarantee Act Mr. Groeneveld: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request leave to introduce Bill 8, the Feeder Associations Guarantee Act. This being a money bill, His Honour the Honourable the Lieutenant Governor, having been informed of the contents of this bill, recommends the same to the Assembly. Like the previous legislation the new act supports the growth and development of feeder associations.

The new act will allow government to better meet the needs of the livestock feeding and marketing value chain, and it is the result of a review of the existing legislation and stakeholder consultations. Thank you. [Motion carried; Bill 8 read a first time] The Speaker: The hon. Member for West Yellowhead. 2:50 Bill 9 Government Organization Amendment Act, 2009 Mr. Campbell: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to request leave to introduce Bill 9, the Government Organization Amendment Act, 2009,

schedule 12. This bill w ill enhance the governance of the registry agents network and increase accountability and service delivery. This will be accomplished by clarifying accountabilities and consequences for registry agents, formalizing a process for audits and inspections, and providing regulation-making authority for further regulations to be developed. Thank you. [Motion carried; Bill 9 read a first time] The Speaker: The hon. Government House Leader. Mr. Hancock: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I would move that Bill 9 be moved onto the Order Paper under Government Bills and Orders. [Motion carried] The Speaker: The hon. Member for Red Deer-South. Bill 10 Supportive Living Accommodation Licensing Act Mr. Dallas: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request leave to introduce Bill 10, the Supportive Living Accommodation Licensing Act. The new act recognizes and reflects the changing needs of Albertans who want to live as independently as possible while they continue to have access to the accommodations and services they need.

The proposed legislation gives government the renewed authority to monitor for compliance to the accommodation standards and investigate complaints from residents, their families, or the general public. This act also clarifies what a supportive living setting is and when an operator requires a licence to operate such a facility. The Supportive Living Accommodation Licensing Act gives residents the opportunity to age in the right pl ace, to stay in their communities, close to their family and friends, their best support system. Thank you, Mr.

Speaker. [Motion carried; Bill 10 read a first time] The Speaker: The hon. Government House Leader.

February 11, 2009 Alberta Hansard 19 Mr. Hancock: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would move that Bill 10 be moved onto the Order Paper under Government Bills and Orders. [Motion carried] The Speaker: The hon. Member for Whitecourt-Ste. Anne. Bill 11 Fisheries (Alberta) Amendment Act, 2009 Mr. VanderBurg: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to request leave to introduce Bill 11, the Fisheries (Alberta) Amendment Act, 2009, for first reading. These amendments will introduce creative sentencing options to deter actions that damage the province’s fisheries.

Through these amendments Albertans will continue to see high-quality fishing opportunities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. [Motion carried; Bill 11 read a first time] The Speaker: The hon. Government House Leader. Mr. Hancock: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would move that Bill 11 be moved onto the Order Paper under Government Bills and Orders. [Motion carried] The Speaker: The hon. Member for Livingstone-Macleod. Bill 12 Surface Rights Amendment Act, 2009 Mr. Berger: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request leave to introduce Bill 12, the proposed Surface Rights Amendment Act, 2009.

I’m bringing the act forward on behalf of my colleague the hon. Minister of Sustainable Resource Development. This legislation will help the Surface Rights Board improve service to Albertans by simplifying its processes. This will enable the board to implement more informal and flexible forms of dispute resolution and allow the board to better manage its workload. The proposed amendments are entirely procedural and do not address other matters such as compensation. Thank you. [Motion carried; Bill 12 read a first time] The Speaker: The hon. Government House Leader. Mr. Hancock: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

I would move that Bill 12 be moved onto the Order Paper under Government Bills and Orders. [Motion carried] The Speaker: The hon. Minister of Justice and Attorney General. Bill 13 Justice of the Peace Amendment Act, 2009 Ms Redford: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to request leave to introduce Bill 13, the Justice of the Peace Amendment Act, 2009. The bill will allow a justice of the peace to sit past the age of 70 up to a maximum of 75 or until his or her appointment expires.

Currently justices of the peace are appointed for a term of 10 years but cannot sit past age 70 even if their appointment has not expired. The proposed legislation is consistent with provisions in the Provincial Court Act applicable to judges and provisions being introduced to the Court of Queen’s Bench Act applicable to masters in chambers. Thank you. [Motion carried; Bill 13 read a first time] head: Tabling Returns and Reports Mr. Groeneveld: Mr. Speaker, I’m pleased today to table responses to questions raised during debate of supplementary estimates on November 26, 2008.

The Speaker: The Leader of the Official Opposition. Dr. Swann: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have a number of tablings today, one series from a Dorene Rew lamenting Alberta taxpayers being hung on the hook for pay to ousted health executives; another from a Mr. Ali Amini relating the dissatisfaction with the way officials and licensing bodies are treating foreign-trained physicians; another on the revamp of the seniors’ drug program from a J. Faminoff; and another set of tablings from Allan and Rose Marie Dahlen, again relating to the seniors’ drug legislation. The Speaker: The hon. Member for Edmonton-Strathcona.

Ms Notley: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have two tablings. I’d like to table the appropriate number of copies of two news releases which relate to my questions today. One is from Millar Western Forest Products, dated February 10, announcing the layoff of 138 workers. The other is from Grande Cache Coal Corporation with today’s date, announcing that 100 workers have been laid off. My second tabling is the appropriate number of copies of six reports from long-term care workers indicating specific instances of shifts that were short-staffed.

One of these workers reports that in spite of taking only two five-minute breaks, there was still not enough time to get all the residents out of bed for breakfast and lunch. Thank you. The Speaker: I have three tablings today. Pursuant to

section 39(3) of the Legislative Assembly Act th e chair wishes to table with the Assembly five copies of the following Members’ Services orders: Members’ Services Committee order 1/09, Executive Council salaries, No. 4, which came into force on February 4; Members’ Services Committee order 2/09, members’ allowances amendment order, which came into force on February 4; Members’ Services Committee order 3/09, members’ committee allowances amendment order, which came into force on February 4; Members’ Services Committee order 4/09, members’ allowances amendment order, which will come into force on April 1; and Members’ Services Committee order 5/09, constituency services amendment order, which will come into force on April 1.

All of those either have come into effect or will come into effect in the year 2009. The chair is also pleased to table five copies of a brochure produced by the Legislative Assembly of Alberta entitled Page Biographies, Legislative Assembly of Alberta, 27th Legislature, Second Session, Spring 2009. This outlines the current and new pages that we have. Pursuant to

section 4(2) of the Election Finances and Contribu- tions Disclosure Act the chair is pleased to table with the Assembly

Alberta Hansard February 11, 200920 the annual report of the Chief Electoral Officer for the calendar year 2007. The report includes the office’s financial statements as at March 31, 2008. head: Tablings to the Clerk The Clerk: I wish to advise the House that the following documents were deposited with the office of the Clerk. On behalf of the hon. Mr. Hancock, Minister of Education, school jurisdictions’ audited financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2007, sections 1, 2, and 3. On behalf of the hon. Mr.

Goudreau, Minister of Employment and Immigration, pursuant to the Regulated Accounting Profession Act the Certified Management Accountants of Alberta 2008 annual report; pursuant to the Veterinary Profession Act the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association 2008 annual report; pursuant to the Land Surveyors Act the Alberta Land Surveyors’ Association report of proceedings of the 99th annual general meeting. On behalf of the hon. Mr. Danyluk, Minister of Municipal Affairs, a letter dated January 6, 2009, from the hon. Mr. Danyluk, Minister of Municipal Affairs, to Ms Pastoor, the hon.

Member for Lethbridge-East, responding to questions raised during debate on Bill 51, the Appropriation (Supplementary Supply) Act (No. 2), regarding the tank site remediation program. On behalf of the hon. Ms Evans, Minister of Finance and Enter- prise, pursuant to the provincial judges and masters in chambers registered and unregistered pension plans regulation the provincial judges and masters in chambers registered and unregistered pension plans annual report for the year ended March 31, 2008.

The Speaker: Hon. members, Standing Order 7(7) now kicks in. 3:00head: Orders of the Day head: Government Motions Committee Membership Changes 2. Mr. Zwozdesky moved on behalf of Mr. Hancock:

Be it resolved that the follo wing changes to the following standing committees be approved. (

a) Special Standing Committee on Members’ Services: that Mr. Fawcett replace Mr. Rodney, that Mr. Rogers replace Mr. Snelgrove; (

b) Standing Committee on Private Bills: that Mr. Bhardwaj replace Mr. Xiao, that Mr. R odney replace Mr. Fawcett, that Dr. Taft replace Dr. Swann; (

c) Standing Committee on Privileges and Elections, Standing Orders and Printing: that Mr. Mitzel replace Mr. Bhardwaj; (

d) Standing Committee on the Alberta Heritage Savings Trust Fund: that Mr. Campbell replace Mr. Olson; (

e) Standing Committee on Public Accounts: that Mr. Quest replace Mr. Griffiths as deputy chair, that Mr. Olson replace Mr. Griffiths; (

f) Standing Committee on Community Services: that Mr. Doerksen replace Mr. Rodney as chair; (

g) Standing Committee on the Economy: that Mr. Campbell replace Mr. Allred as chair, that Dr. Taft replace Ms Blakeman; (

h) Standing Committee on Resources and Environment: that Ms Blakeman replace Dr. Swann as deputy chair; (

i) Standing Committee on Health: that Dr. Taft replace Dr. Swann. The Speaker: Hon. members, this is a debatable motion. I have a question for the hon. Member for Edmonton-Strathcona. Yesterday I received from the hon. member and the hon. member’s colleague two letters indicating they wanted to resign from committees. As I understand it, the motion now put forward by the Deputy Govern- ment House Leader does not contain those two changes. Now, a letter was sent from my office and conveyed to the Government House Leader with respect to that.

I understand as well, though, that this motion was already on the Order Paper. So there’s a question of either having to deal with this matter now or of coming back to it another day. An additional motion would have to be made. Right now we just have the one in front of us. Mr. Zwozdesky: Mr. Speaker, I’m sorry. I have not yet received a copy of those particular letters, but with the concurrence of the House we could certainly bring this back at a later time. The Speaker: That is a possibility. Do you want to proceed with the current motion as it is now and bring the subsequent matter back later? Mr.

Zwozdesky: Yes, please. The Speaker: The motion in front of us is debatable. No partici- pants, then? Okay. [Government Motion 2 carried] The Speaker: Before we move on, might we just interrupt the ordinary routine to revert to Introduction of Guests? [Unanimous consent granted] head: Introduction of Guests (reversion) The Speaker: Hon. Deputy Speaker, you sent me a note that you have guests. Mr. Cao: Yes, Mr. Speaker. It’s a pleasure for me to rise and introduce to you and through you to this Assembly the three representatives of TUXIS Parliament of Alberta who are visiting the Legislature today.

The TUXIS Parliament is a nonprofit youth parliament open to Alberta youth between the ages of 15 and 21. It provides youth with an opportunity to improve public speaking ability, to become capable leaders, and to learn about the workings of parliamentary procedure. Natasha Soles and Kelsey Earle are currently members of the group, and Benjamyn McKay is a member of the alumni society. Now, I was wondering which gallery they were sitting in. I would like to ask the Assembly to give them a traditional warm welcome. The Speaker: Leader of the Official Opposition, you have some very special guests. Dr.

Swann: Well, thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. To you and through you to the House I want to introduce my mother, my sister, and two cousins who are here today to see my inaugural speech: my mother, Margaret Swann, a graduate of McKay Avenue school in the early days in Edmonton – she lives in Calgary now with most of my family – Susan Saracini, a sister, who lives in Calgary; Gary and Loris Webb, Edmontonians and supporters. I would ask them to stand up, and we’ll give them a warm traditional welcome to the Legislature.

February 11, 2009 Alberta Hansard 21 head: Consideration of His Honour the Lieutenant Governor’s Speech Mr. Johnston moved that an humble address be presented to His Honour the Honourable the Lieutenant Governor as follows. To His Honour the Honourable Norman L. Kwong, CM, AOE, Lieutenant Governor of the province of Alberta: We, Her Majesty’s most dutiful and loyal subjects, the Legislative Assembly, now assembled, beg leave to thank Your Honour for the gracious speech Your Honour has been pleased to address to us at the opening of the present session. The Speaker: The hon. Member for Calgary-Hays. Mr.

Johnston: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is a pleasure to move acceptance of the Speech from the Throne, and it is an honour to do it on behalf of the constituents of Calgary-Hays. I know my constituents will be very pleased with the direction our government is taking. For the fifth year in a row His Honour the Lieutenant Governor delivered the Speech from the Throne with eloquence and style. His words were not only touching but inspired us. His Honour showed us a picture of the Alberta that we all want to achieve and be a part of.

In the speech we saw an Alberta that is dedicated to building local, national, and international relationships, driving its innovation to higher levels, and leading in environmental management. We also saw a province that will continue to take care of its most vulnerable, a province that supports its communities, strengthens its education system, and leads an efficient and effective health care system. This is an Alberta that I’m pleased to be part of. The Speech from the Throne provided us with a map of how we will achieve this Alberta over the months to come. But, Mr.

Speaker, the speech struck me because it showed us how we are going to excel during these uncertain times. If we follow the plan set out in the Speech from the Throne, we can triumph over any possible barriers ahead. It is apparent that only Albertans can look at today’s economic uncertainty and see the path to prosperity. Looking back to remember all the steps we took to ensure a stronger today is a good reminder that it takes a solid plan and discipline to secure a safe tomorrow. Indeed, with a long-term plan as was outlined in the Speech from the Throne, anything is possible.

If we are dedicated enough, we can not only get through anything, but we can shine as we come out of it. If there is anyone who is going to overcome the challenges ahead of us, it is Alberta. That is the essence of what it is to be Albertan. Not only do we work hard to meet our goals, attain greatness, and enhance our lifestyles, but we go above and beyond to achieve more than is expected from us. We create opportunities out of adversity. Eliminating the deficit was no easy feat. We all had to make sacrifices, but we knew why we were doing it. We stuck to it, and we achieved our goal and are better off for it.

Today we sit a little more comfortably because of the sacrifices we made in the past. We are one step ahead of the game. Now we can continue to save for the future and cut taxes like the health care premium to make a little more room in our wallets. We know that every penny counts, so our government will continue to be efficient with taxpayer dollars. Funds will be used responsibly to reach as many Albertans who need it. Albertans can continue to count on r eceiving value for their hard-earned money. It is because of careful planning that we are able to head into the times ahead with a positive outlook.

We have a strong f oundation that is going to ease us through the months to come. Albertans can breathe a little easier b ecause of their government’s prudence and foresight. Because of the fiscal discipline that permeates all decisions that this government makes, we are able to develop new technology, enhance the security of all Albertans, and continue to take care of those who need it most. These are the things that matter to Alber- tans.

We will continue to plan for the future by investing in our people, our infrastructure, and our innovative technologies so that we can continue our tradition of being a leader. This government knows where Alberta’s strengths are. The Speech from the Throne showed us that these strengths will increase as we continue to work on them and improve them. We will continue to aim for perfection in our leading industries.

We will continue to focus on innovation in the energy sector, technology, and on our most valuable resource, our people. 3:10 Through new initiatives like Inspiring Education, which I am looking forward to bringing back to my constituency, we will make Alberta’s education system as accessible and inviting as possible. All students will be able to flourish and find their passion. Once young Albertans have grown through the first level of their educa- tion, they will be able to look forward to the next step.

Our out- standing postsecondary institutions, honed by Campus Alberta, will specialize their skills so that they can be among the most competitive in the world. The future looks bright. We know that the way to become the best is to focus on our strengths, so Albertans have worked to develop our natural resources responsibly, and for that reason we are world renowned. We have earned the status of a safe and secure producer of energy. We will continue to profit from that place in the world. We will compete in the global market for our place.

We will promote our products and their advantages through the relationships that our government has been building. We will grow and break down any barriers. As a result, our careers will continue to prosper. We were blessed with natural resources, but what separates us from the rest is how we work with them. Alberta develops partner- ships to grow expertise in the energy sector. This has allowed us to develop our resources and meet the global demand for energy.

Through the partnerships we have created, we can be confident that our resources are being extracted with state-of-the-art methods and in the most environmentally conscious way. Our resources and innovations will continue to be competitive around the world as our government will pursue the promotion of our goods. Continuing to build on our successes and innovation will help us continue our strong standing on the global stage. The relationships we build with our resource partners on the international market will ensure that our economy continues to prosper.

The world has already started to learn about our environmental focus and leadership. Our innovation is showing the world how it is possible to have clean water, air, and land while supplying the world with forestry, agriculture, and energy commodities. As has been laid out in yesterday’s speech, the government of Alberta will continue to work to maintain the high quality way of life we enjoy as Albertans. Programs and services will continue to be among the best available. Our highest standard will be upheld.

Thanks to the past investments we have made in infrastructure, we can now rest assured that the ones we love are receiving the best care in our world-class hospitals. I recently experienced our hospitals first-hand when I spent the day at the Peter Lougheed hospital as a patient. I was very impressed with the level of care I received from all of the providers involved. Calgary-Hays is looking forward to being home to the new south hospital, a ring road, and already we have new schools being built. These investments are vital and truly enhance our quality of life.

Alberta Hansard February 11, 200922 Mr. Speaker, we have the tools and resources, but it is the spirit of Alberta that has made the most of them. It is our people who have brought our province to a level of excellence. We will continue to attract the best people to come work and live in Alberta to sustain our growth and drive our development. No matter what the future holds, it is our people who will make the difference. It is our initiative that will sustain us.

Our continued dedication to enhancing the quality of life of Albertans is put into action in Bill 1, the Employment Standards (Reservist Leave) Amendment Act, 2009. Bill 1 will protect those who protect us. Many Albertans leave their friends and family behind to serve their country. Some of these people are soldiers by career. They are employed by the Canadian Forces on a full-time basis. However, there are soldiers who have regular civilian jobs and volunteer with the Canadian Forces on a part-time basis. These reservists are only called upon when the Canadian Forces are in need of help. Mr.

Speaker, Alberta is proud to be home to 25,000 reservists, who at times have had to leave their family and their careers to assist the Canadian Forces. Reservists expand, sustain, and support Canada’s forces in times of need. They play a vital role in opera- tions abroad and in emergency situ ations within Canada. Locally, reservists have been called upon in Alberta to help extinguish our forest fires, and they were able to supplement our forces and give them relief. They must be given the flexibility to leave work in these sorts of challenging situations.

As the Canadian Forces mission to Afghanistan has been ex- tended, more and more reservists are required. Reservists are needed to create stability and peace in countries which face turmoil. These brave men and women build much-needed infrastructure, protect innocent civilians from ex tremists, and he lp build strong relationships to ensure that diplomatic progress is maintained. While they leave Alberta to achieve this, there have been occasions when reservists have come back to Canada only to find that their jobs are no longer there, that they have been filled by someone else.

Needless to say, this is a disheartening reality. Bill 1 will change that situation. The legislation will ensure that service to one’s country and bravery are rewarded. Those who dedicate themselves to peace should not have to choose between a career and serving our country. We should encourage them in any way possible. The legislation will make sure that the transition from a conflict zone to Alberta is as smooth as possible. Bill 1 will amend the Employment Standards Code to establish unpaid job protection leave for the reservists who take

part in military activities and operations. When reservists have shown their dedication to a job by spending 26 consecutive weeks with an employer, they will be able to take a protected leave. They will be able to pick up where they left off, and they will be able to continue achieving their career goals. They won’t have to worry about career growth and paths when they are considering whether or not to volunteer to be a reservist. According to the Canadian Forces there are currently over 400 primary reserves personnel serving on peacekeeping and humanitar- ian missions.

These people are crucial to the proper functioning of the Canadian Forces operations. Bill 1 will help the Canadian Forces maintain the reputation of having the best and brightest soldiers and will allow soldiers to get the proper training they need to face difficult situations. While reservists usually train during their time off work, on weekends and on holidays, they also need two weeks of full-time service a year to keep their qualifications current. Bill 1 will allow this to happen much easier. Whether they get deployed to a Canadian Forces operation abroad, help with an emergency in Canada, or take

part in crucial training, their jobs will be here for them when they get back to Alberta. Therefore, if reservists leave their family, they can rest assured that when they come back from the call of duty, they will be able to provide for their loved ones in the same way they once did. Job security is not a burden that reservists should have to bear on their shoulders when they are in the service of their country. Further, Bill 1 will help reservists get back to their home lives a little easier. They will simply be able to continue in a job that they are good at and comfortable in.

This will help provide some sense of continuity for reservists and their families. As a former soldier I realize how important it is to have reservists to augment the Canadian Forces numbers. They allow our military to successfully complete their missions. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the Premier for bringing this legislation forward. I know that Bill 1 will make a world of difference in the lives of reservists and their loved ones. Bill 1 makes it possible to balance life and duty. I am honoured to be part of a government that is so focused on the needs of its people.

Our dedication to fiscal prudence and growth development will serve us well. Based on the Speech from the Throne, it is clear that all aspects of our economy and our lives have been considered to make sure that Albertans’ lives are as seamless as possible during this time of uncertainty. Albertans can look forward to a healthy, happy, and prosperous future thanks to the strong leadership of our government, and I look forward to the days ahead and the accomplishments to come. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. The Speaker: The hon. Member for Drayton Valley-Calmar. Mrs. McQueen: Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

It is truly an honour and a privilege to rise in the House today to second the motion to accept the Speech from the Throne. It’s hard to believe that almost an entire year has passed since I sat in this House to give my first throne speech as a Member of this Legislative Assembly. I felt tremendously honoured to be elected by the constituents of Drayton Valley-Calmar as part of one of the strongest governments this province has ever seen, and every day I continue to be very proud to serve my constituents. Again I felt privileged when I was asked to take on the role of parliamentary assistant for Environment.

I can tell you that I am enjoying this role very much, working with the exceptional team headed by the hon. Minister of Environment. It is indeed a pleasure to work on the environmental issues and challenges facing Alber- tans. Mr. Speaker, the Premier inviting me to second the Speech from the Throne is among those great honours. I stand here today very proud to represent my constituents and my province. Reminiscing about this time last year reminds me of the excitement I felt in anticipation of what was to come and the challenge I would face as a new MLA. In many ways this new session is no different.

I still look forward to what is to come. As we all know, there have been significant changes in the past year, bringing along with them new and unique challenges. With all of the challenges in the global economic climate we as Albertans, Canadians, and global citizens will experience new pressures. Our government is aware of this and is harnessing its innovative skills and thinking ahead and is finding solutions. Mr. Speaker, my cup is always half full. That is how I tackle challenges, by thoughtfully considering what we need to do but also exploring what opportuni- ties exist in meeting our challenges.

It is important to ensure that the decisions we make today will indeed consider the impacts on the future as well.

February 11, 2009 Alberta Hansard 23 3:20 In light of these changes and challenges we face, the Alberta government has created a plan to protect Albertans and what matters most to them. In the 2008 budget the hon. minister of finance announced that health care premiums would be eliminated for all Albertans, and as of January 1, 2009, we carried through on this promise. This tax change is just one example of measures taken by our government to stimulate the economy, saving Albertans and businesses alike over $1 billion annually.

Our government was taking measures like this long before the economic downturn began to prepare us for when times are tougher. As we heard yesterday in the Speech from the Throne, the government’s plan is inclusive of all Albertans. It is clear that Alberta’s unique qualities are protected, our resources are valued, and most importantly, that our people, from our youngest to our eldest, are cared for. For our youngest and families the throne speech reiterated a goal of 14,000 new child care spaces by the year 2011, and the province is well on its way. My own community of Drayton Valley has taken

part in this initiative through the develop- ment of an early childhood development centre. This is an excellent example of how communities work to meet the needs of children and families in collaboration with the province. It was a privilege to have the hon. Premier, Mrs. Stelmach, and the hon. Minister of Children and Youth Services attend the grand opening of the centre. I know that the children and families present were thrilled to have them in attendance on that very special day.

Our commitment to Alberta’s youth and families continues with the Department of Education and the launch of Inspiring Education, which gives Albertans the unique opportunity to shape the future of education in our province. Now is the time for Albertans of all ages to express their vision for the future of education in our province so that we can ensure that it indeed reflects their hopes and their dreams. In addition to children and youth, Mr.

Speaker, the throne speech also recognizes our seniors, the significant place they hold in our society and our communities and the importance of ensuring that they have the opportunity to live comfortably and to age in their place of choice. The ministers of Seniors and Community Supports and Health and Wellness recently rolled out comprehensive continuing care standards which ensure that quality services are delivered across the entire system, including home living, supportive living, and facility living. Overall, Mr.

Speaker, in continuing to pursue Alberta’s continuing care strategy, the government is working to ensure that seniors have a strong voice in planning their future, enabling them to preserve their independence and quality of life. Having this choice is so important for our seniors in all geographical areas of our province. As a rural MLA it is extremely important for me to have those choices available to my seniors in Drayton Valley-Calmar and throughout the province.

I know that as we make decisions affecting our seniors, I keep my mom, 87 years young, who is living in continuing care, and all seniors in my constituency close to mind. They and others like them have helped mould our province into the wonderful place it is today. It is our duty to ensure that we make our decisions with this mind, to be forever grateful for what they have done and continue to do today to build our communities and our province. In ensuring quality and service for our youngest to our eldest, the throne speech delivers with a focused commitment to advanced education.

Albertans will have the opportunity to pursue their learning and career goals through Campus Alberta, a vision encom- passing all of our province’s postsecondary institutions, ultimately providing Albertans with lifelong learning opportunities. Through this framework Albertans can pursue their career goals within the province. In my constituency an educational consortium helps to deliver these educational opportunities. This ensures that my constituents can receive their education in the location of their choice.

Many of my constituents are happy to remain at home in rural Alberta, and the consortium allows them to do this. Investments in education will keep Alberta on the cutting edge of science and ingenuity, increasing our intellectual capital and driving our business sector. Mr. Speaker, we heard in the throne speech that there is a plan to protect our business sector as well. An example of a measure already undertaken by our government to boost Alberta’s economy is the trade, investment, and labour mobility agreement.

This agreement eliminates trade barriers between Alberta and British Columbia, allowing for nearly seamless access to labour, transporta- tion, and energy between the two provinces. This government is dedicated to maintaining strong ties with our biggest trading partner, the United States, as our province and our country welcomes the new administration, but it will be very important for us to continue to broaden the number of trading partners we have. This government will work hard to ensure that open communication and support mutually benefit business deals with all of our trading partners.

In the marketing of Alberta’s energy the government has devel- oped a plan to ensure responsible and sustainable prosperity for the province’s future. The provincial energy strategy works towards the goal of providing energy while at the same time minimizing the impact on the environment. In addition to harnessing technology, the development of renewable energy, the strategy encourages the responsible and prudent use of current energy sources. Further, this government is working to reduce the impact of current emissions through the announcement of a $2 billion investment in carbon capture and storage.

With these initiatives Alberta is demonstrating an ardent commit- ment to protecting our energy and the environment, two of our greatest assets. Mr. Speaker, the pristine beauty of our environment and landscapes are legendary. The commitments made in relation to the energy sector are complemented by initiatives to further protect our environment. The newly developed land-use framework will help to ensure that the uniqueness of Alberta’s many different ecosystems is preserved.

A renewed water for life strategy will make certain that we are conscious of our water as a resource and that we have a plan to protect it in the long term. The Speech from the Throne also addressed Alberta’s parks, promising the release of a new plan that will ensure the sustainability of these areas, enhance recreational opportunities, and continue to attract many individuals to our province both as tourists and as residents. Mr. Speaker, our communities are vibrant and are continually becoming stronger and more secure.

Recent initiatives such as the enactment of the Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Act demonstrates this government’s commitment to community safety. We also believe that it is extremely important to continue to invest in infrastructure throughout our province to position us well once we emerge from this economic downturn. It is our belief that an important part of our continued economic success will be intimately tied to our investments in our province’s infrastructure. Not only does this create jobs at a time when it is incredibly important, but it also improves the quality of life of all Albertans.

Many other jurisdictions in Canada and, indeed, around the world are going into massive deficits in order to finance their projects. However, Alberta is ahead of the curve and has allocated more than $6 billion as part of the capital account. These investments will

Alberta Hansard February 11, 200924 improve our hospitals, schools, and other public infrastructure to help address the needs of our province as we meet the challenges of a booming, growing, and changing population, ultimately encourag- ing individuals to stay in Alberta. We recognize the unique challenges the economy places on our infrastructure growth plans, and as such we will ensure that funds disbursed are delivered efficiently and in an effective manner, providing the best dollar value for Albertans.

Taking care of our infrastructure will ensure that we are ready for the opportunities that the future will bring. Yesterday, Mr. Speaker, when I heard the hon. Lieutenant Governor say that tough times bring out the best in Albertans because we pull together through adversity and emerge with strength, it struck me on such a personal level as I was deeply touched by these words. My own community’s motto is Pulling Together, and it drives our sense of community. Our businesses, volunteer groups, and associations enrich my region’s quality of life based on this very motto. It has seen us through thick and thin.

Not only is pulling together what Albertans do, but it is clear that this government will help provide the structure and opportunity for us to do just that. It is the people that make the area so rich. Their can-do attitude is what makes my constituency such a wonderful pl ace to live, work, and raise a family. With Bill 1 we as Albertans can continue to show our support to the reservists who make great sacrifices to protect our freedoms by supporting them through job security while they are on leave. 3:30 Mr.

Speaker, I saw all Albertans reflected yesterday in the throne speech, from our youngest to our eldest to our volunteers, from the businessman to the developer, from the oil sands in the north to our beautiful parks, the importance of our agriculture and forestry industries, and our emerging bioeconomy. This government has a plan that will keep Alberta in its leadership role despite the global economic climate. It’s true that we’re not immune, but we are still very fortunate.

We w ill continue to do what we have always done: we will adapt to the rea lities of our situation, set goals for the futu re, and move forward in pursuing these goals. Our priority, as always, is to protect Albertans and what matters to them most. As the hon. Lieutenant Governor said yesterday, we remain committed to core programs that Albertans value deeply, such as health and education. Albertans are not immune to the financial situation around the world, and we understand that Albertans are worried about their futures. We have made a promise to protect Albertans in these tough times, a promise we will keep.

We are debt free, and we have over $7 billion set aside in the sustainability fund to help protect our core programs. We have low unemployment and low income and corporate taxes. The strong fiscal management we have shown and the difficult decisions made in the past have positioned Alberta well. This has not happened by mistake, Mr. Speaker. It is because of great leadership that ensured that money was set aside in good times to be there when Albertans need it. I for one as a new MLA am grateful to the leaders who had the vision to pay down our debt and to put these savings funds in place.

Our decisions may still be tough, but they will be made easier because of the vision for the future. Mr. Speaker, our plan is a holistic, comprehensive approach for Alberta and includes measures to protect what matters to Albertans. With an ardent commitment to protecting our environment, we will successfully market Alberta’s energy to an environmentally conscious world, and we will ensure that our forestry and agricultural industries continue to be supported and valued and that new and emerging opportunities in value-added and bioeconomies will be supported.

By providing Albertans with quality service and opportunities from childhood through to retirement, not only are we securing a high quality of life for current Albertans, but we are attracting many new ones who, too, are so called and will be so proud to call Alberta home. Overall this plan allows Albertans to face our future with a great deal of confidence. It gives us hope, opportunity, and a vision of where Alberta and Albertans are headed.

It embraces the many opportunities our great province has to offer, and it speaks to and is grateful for all Albertans’ pulling together to make this the best place in the world to live, work, play, retire, and educate and raise our families. There is no place in the world like Alberta, and it is because of the wonderful spirit and the can-do attitude of Albertans. In closing, Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank His Honour the Lieutenant Governor for the confidence and certainty in his delivery of the Speech from the Throne and in the manner in which he serves our province. Thank you.

The Speaker: As I call on the hon. Leader of the Official O pposi- tion, the hon. leader under our rules has up to 90 minutes to participate. At the conclusion there is an offering of a five-minute question-and-answer response. It’s my great pleasure to introduce the new leader of Her Maj- esty’s Official Opposition in the province of Alberta. The hon. Leader of the Official Opposition. Dr. Swann: Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. I rise today in the House to respond to the Sp eech from the Throne as Leader of the Official Opposition and an immensely proud, lifelong Albertan.

My privilege and duty today is to ch allenge the government’s flawed premises and outdated assumptions as outlined in yesterday’s Speech from the Throne. With no disrespect I offer an alternative vision of our future, a future of a great province with unparalleled opportunity and potential. I acknowledge good ideas within the sp eech, but it fails to answer the questions most Albertans are asking. Where are we going?

What is the long-term vision to a better and a different future, a future that even now is being written by profound eco- nomic, environmental, and social realities, a future that we must step forward to guide or be left behind as other civilizations have been? Other societies have anticipated this future. They have already seen the dangers and the opportunities, and they are taking action now. Several European nations over the past 15 years have wisely chosen to develop their resources more carefully, to save more prudently, and to determine environmental limits and live within them, and they are living well.

Change is possible. Change can work even for Alberta. Albertans know that we need a change, that t

Document details

Collection	Alberta — Debates (Hansard)
Citation	20090211
Type	hansard
Volume / chapter	L27 S2 20090211 1330 01 han.pdf
Language	en
Format	json
Source	PROVINCIAL
Identifier	5645a5ae65abc467d57368f1bb98ed9ded3b39fc

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