During difficult economic times, it is important to stick together and help each other out. It is the Alberta way. We did it during the Depression in the 1930s and we did it during the dark days of the National Energy Program.
You may have heard that two of our MLAs recently decided to leave our party. Of course, I was disappointed when I heard they had decided to leave the PC team. But their departure will not deflect us from our goal of leading Canada out of its recession, and ensuring Albertans have the brightest future possible.
The remaining 68 MLAs in our strong majority government caucus are focused on the task of growing the Alberta economy, making Alberta the most competitive jurisdiction in North America and returning this province to a surplus position in three years, while protecting services for the least fortunate.
And when the recession is over, unlike any other jurisdiction in Canada, Alberta will not be passing debt onto the next generation.
The coming year will be difficult but we have never shied away from hard work. And Alberta will very soon be leading the country in economic growth again, thanks to you.
Alberta Innovates is new hub for innovating, investing, collaborating
As a new year begins, five new Alberta Innovates agencies start their work to strengthen the province’s role as a world leader in using science to seek solutions to challenges like climate change, water conservation and health conditions.
The new system features an international advisory board, the Alberta Research and Innovation Authority, and four agencies under the Alberta Innovates banner that focus on bio solutions, energy and environment solutions, health solutions, and technology commercialization.
Alberta Innovates officially came into being on Jan. 1, when the Alberta Research and Innovation Act and regulation came into force. The new organizations have realigned 10 provincially funded research and innovation organizations. In March 2008, Premier Stelmach mandated Minister Horner to develop and implement a framework that defined the roles and mandates for Alberta’s provincially funded research and innovation organizations.
Alberta Innovates contributes to The Way Forward, the Government of Alberta’s plan for a strong economic recovery, which includes ensuring that our province’s industries are competitive and continue to attract investment to provide jobs and prosperity.
ALERT investigation results in drug trafficking charges
Police have charged four people with trafficking marijuana and cocaine in Medicine Hat, and seized over 2.9 kilograms of marijuana and 83 grams of cocaine with a total street value of approximately $41,000. Two firearms charges have also been brought against one of the accused after a prohibited semi-automatic weapon and ammunition were seized from a residence. The arrests come after an eight-week investigation was conducted by the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team (ALERT) made up of investigators from the Medicine Hat Police Service and the RCMP. The accused are scheduled to appear in court on Jan. 12, 2010.
ALERT is an umbrella organization established by the Alberta government to integrate Alberta’s most sophisticated law enforcement resources to strategically tackle serious and organized crime. The investigative team in this case consisted of the Medicine Hat Integrated Intelligence Unit working with the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit, which are both part of ALERT, and are made up of investigators from the Medicine Hat Police Service and the RCMP.
As the MLA for Drumheller-Stettler, I am always available to assist constituents. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Premier’s message, Alberta Innovates, ALERT or any other matter, please contact one of my constituency offices at Stettler 403-742-4284; Hanna 403-854-4333; Drumheller 403-823-8181; or in Edmonton at 780-427-5041. Also, please subscribe to my e-newsletter at http://hayden.mypcmla.ca/