Alberta Liberal MLA David Swann is calling for more public education on the health effects of cannabis after more than 220  cannabis retail applicantions were made in less than 24 hours to the City of Calgary:

Dr. Swann stated, “With an avalanche of applications on the first day its clear entrepreneurs believe Albertans are interested in this product. What isn’t clear is that the public has enough information on the health impact of cannabis.

“Albertans need the facts on the risks of cannabis use, for both their own personal health and safety and to reduce the broader costs to society from misuse.

“I’m especially concerned for Albertans under 25. Cannabis use has a detrimental effect on a developing brain according to Ottawa’s public health agency. Brain development occurs until roughly 25.

As a Canadian and former resident of Toronto, I want to express my deepest sympathies on this horrific tragedy.

To those who have been affected by this event: you are in the thoughts and prayers of myself and Canadians across this nation. To the law enforcement officers and healthcare professionals who are dealing with the fallout of the attack: you have our gratitude.

While it is difficult to comprehend events like this so soon after the recent Humboldt crash, as Canadians we must rise to the occasion and offer all the support we can to those suffering from this terrible event.

If you are struggling with the mental impact of this tragedy, please reach out to friends, family or a mental health professional.

Liberal MLA David Swann is calling out the NDP Government for their half-measure reform on wildlife rehabilitation that only allows for wildlife rehabilitation of orphaned black bear cubs:

“Sadly, this is yet another example of the NDP doing the bear minimum on environmental and progressive issues.”

Dr. David Swann tabled a petition with over 20 thousand signatures demanding the Minister of Environment and Parks to reassess, update, and complete written protocols for all species on which restrictions on rehabilitation or fostering are placed earlier this month.

That pushed the NDP Government to announce they were lifting the ban on rehabilitating orphan black bear cubs but the government hasn’t extended this to all mammals.