At a Glance
Anti-Energy Inquiry Contacts 40 Groups
Two years after the UCP’s launch of its $3.5 million Anti-Alberta energy inquiry, 40 groups have been contacted for responses to the inquiry’s evidence and potential findings as commissioner Steve Allan has started making headway. The materials pertaining to the subjects of the inquiry are expected to remain confidential until they become part of the public record, which is expected this summer as the project’s most recent extension deadline is currently July 30th.
While the Alberta government is battling anti-petroleum efforts through their inquiry, several announcements have been made on new green energy initiatives, like the creation of the Alberta Carbon Grid by energy giants such as TC Energy and Pembina Pipeline. The carbon grid is the mobilization of commercial interests to move towards the net-zero green house gas emissions by 2050. Global conglomerate Amazon also announced its second renewable energy project recently, a 375 MW solar farm in Vulcan County. For non-renewables, two coal companies are still hoping to move forward to develop mines in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains despite roadblocks.
Undocumented Death and Burial Research Efforts Receive Funding
Premier Jason Kenney announced the provincial government’s multi-million-dollar package to fund research into the undocumented deaths and burials of Indigenous children totaling $8 million. In 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission reported that at least 821 children died in Alberta residential schools between 1867 and 2000 – more than any other province or territory. This follows Saskatchewan and Ontario committing $2 million and $10 million respectively for similar research in the wake of 215 children’s remains being uncovered at Kamloops’ residential school.
It was recently announced that approximately 751 unmarked graves were discovered on the grounds of the former Marieval Indian Residential School in Saskatchewan. This discovery was made by the Cowessess First Nation as they began their radar search on June 1st.
Alberta’s 2021-22 School Year Plan Released
The province released its 2021-2022 School Year Plan last week. The plan is subject to change with direction from Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Deena Hinshaw, as the province continues to monitor the situation surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. The government anticipates students to be able to continue learning, whether in-person or online. A return to a normal school year is currently predicted due to the rate and availability of vaccines across the province.
Online learning supports and information are being strengthened by Alberta Education throughout the summer. They also have launched a full online learning directory for students in each school authority. The administration of grade 12 diploma exams and grades 6 and 9 Provincial Achievement Tests will resume as per normal practice in the upcoming school year. School authorities will have flexibility whether to administer Grade 3 Student Learning Assessments. Alberta Education’s Specialized Learning Support (SLS) Grant will be providing funding for school authorities to provide a continuum of supports and services to provide an inclusive learning environment through psychological and other wellness initiatives. The overall conclusion of return to school plans for the fall is planned to be a post-pandemic response as per normal.
Alberta’s Fiscal Deficit Updated
The final figures for the province’s 2020-21 fiscal year’s spending have been revealed, showing a $17 billion deficit on $60 billion in spending. Real GDP fell by 8.2% while unemployment rose to 11.4% over the past year. This brings Alberta’s taxpayer-supported debt to $93 billion.
The economy has been steadily improving as public health restrictions have been lifted across the province. Oil prices have seen a significant boost due to the supply not increasing as quickly as the post-pandemic demand for petroleum products. Due to this, Alberta is now predicted to lead Canada in growth in the coming months by economic forecasts, showing hope is on the horizon for Alberta’s economy.
