Alberta legislature resumes; Focus on jobs and bill to punish protesters
EDMONTON – A new legislature sitting has begun with the Alberta government promising to invest directly in oil and gas, if necessary, and to pass a law that would punish people who block roads and rail lines.
The throne speech read by Lt.-Gov. Lois Mitchell says Premier Jason Kenney’s United Conservative government will be introducing a long-term blueprint for jobs.
The speech says the province is prepared to invest directly and support companies in the resource industry if that’s what it takes to boost Alberta’s wellspring industry.
The government also is expected to table a bill today that proposes stiffer penalties for anyone who tries to shut down critical economic infrastructure, including railways.