Friday Focus: Failing to plan is planning to fail.

Capturing opportunities for First Nations

Carbon capture projects remain an important strategy for our petroleum industry to deal with climate change. These would see Alberta oil and gas producers reduce carbon emissions by capturing and storing carbon in the ground. Many of these projects are expected to be built on or near First Nations land.

Alberta Liberals support carbon capture as a means to fight climate change. We also believe First Nations must be consulted and fairly compensated for any impact on their land. The failure of the UCP government to ensure this shows that their commitment to First Nations consultations on energy projects is, at best, shallow. 

Failing to Plan is Planning to Fail 

Canada’s Chief Public Health Official, Dr. Tam, told the Commons health committee that the pandemic is not over and we can expect another uptick in viral activity, likely in the Fall. 

So where is the plan from our provincial government?

For consecutive waves of the pandemic, the UCP government reacted late and it cost Albertans time, money and lives. Now the government pretends the pandemic is over. We cannot afford the mistakes of the past. Our healthcare system still hasn’t recovered from the previous waves. It is also beset by challenges like staff shortages and the EMS crisis. Now is the time to plan in advance for another wave and clearly communicate that plan to Albertans. 

Winding up for the Windfall Tax

This week Alberta’s energy minister condemned the idea of a windfall tax like we’ve seen discussed in the U.K., This tax on the rising profits of oil and gas companies is designed to offset the rising cost of living by funding cash payments to citizens.

I could see a case for a made-in-Alberta version. Albertans are struggling with the rising cost of living and these companies are making historic profits. You would have to be careful with such a policy to not harm the industry, but there is potential to help Albertans through the hardships of high inflation. 

On this issue, I’d love to hear what you think. Your voice matters, so don’t hesitate to reach out on this or any other issue of concern. 

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