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Photo: Government of Alberta / Tracy Allard
By Shane Clausing
Ready for Cabinet Role

Allard ready for Minister of Municipal Affairs role

Aug 27, 2020 | 5:00 AM

On Tuesday, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney announced a shuffle in his cabinet, which included naming Grande Prairie MLA Tracy Allard as the new Minister of Municipal Affairs.

Allard, who replaces Kaycee Madu in the position, says it was a privilege to be given the opportunity to join the provincial cabinet.

“It’s still surreal,” said Allard. “I feel incredibly honoured and humbled to take this role.

“To be afforded an opportunity like this at this time in history, I think it’s a huge challenge for Albertans, but it’s also a huge opportunity. I’m delighted to serve.”

Allard says that she believes that her work as an MLA in the community and building relationships was a big reason why she was offered the position.

“That’s certainly what the Premier indicated to me. It was great news to hear,” said Allard. “I personally believe that hard work pays off and I tell my children that on a daily basis, so hopefully I’m living proof of that.”

Back in December, Allard’s peers in the legislature voted her the hardest working MLA.

Allard said that she found out about the job offer on Sunday night, and she was officially sworn at a ceremony on Wednesday afternoon.

She says the first item on her agenda is to get an understanding of the files and reach out and create relationships with all municipalities.

“I’ve already had several meetings with Mayors. I met with (Calgary) Mayor Nenshi (Wednesday) morning and (Edmonton) Mayor Iverson is scheduled for (Thursday), but we snuck in a quick visit this afternoon.”

Allard wanted to thank everyone in the Peace Region for the support on the new role.

“I just wanted to thank the great people of Grande Prairie and our Mayor and Reeve and MD. I am so delighted to work with those municipal leaders. I’m super excited to work with them in this new capacity and I couldn’t be happier to serve the people of Grande Prairie.”

County of Grande Prairie Reeve Leanne Beaupre says she is looking forward to working more closely with Allard, and credits her hard work for getting the new role.

“I think the Premier has made a very wise choice,” said Beaupre. “I think her hard work, dedication and determination has demonstrated that.”

Meantime, City of Grande Prairie Councillor Dylan Bressey took to Twitter on Tuesday to express his pleasure with the choice, while also underscoring his hopes for better harmony between the provincial and municipal governments.

(With files from Shaun Penner, EverythingGP)

by Shane Clausing