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GOVERNMENT: Election called on March 3 after Throne speech to eliminate health care premiums
        (AlbertaIndex, February 5, Tuesday) --- Alberta will hold its first provincial election in over three years on March 3, said Premier Ed Stelmach, the leader of the Conservative Party. It will be the first for Stelmach who took over as Premier after succeeding Ralph Klein as party leader 14 months ago.
        He made the announcement after the Throne had called for the phase-out of health care premiums for all Albertans within four years and the introduction of a new savings strategy.

The speech, outlining the government’s plan for Alberta, was delivered by Lieutenant Governor Norman L. Kwong February 4. Its key points include plans to:
    •    increase the number of health care workers;
    •    continue to implement the 20-year strategic capital plan;
    •    create more than 11,000 new affordable housing units over five years;
    •    allocate significant new funding to implement a crime reduction strategy;
    •    begin work with industry to put in place carbon capture and storage infrastructure; and
    •    implement the new oil royalty framework.

Premier Stelmach said: “Our government has a vision for Alberta’s future – and a plan to get us there.  It’s a plan to build communities, green our growth and create opportunity for long-term prosperity.

“Today, our government has laid out the elements of that plan.  They build on the steps we’ve already taken, and will position Alberta for continued leadership in Canada and the world.”

“Helping families in our growing economy is a priority.  Phasing out premiums will save the average family $1,056 per year. Collectively, municipalities, universities, schools and hospitals can expect to save more than $84 million per year - dollars that can be re-invested in frontline services.”


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