The throne speech delivered on Tuesday was certainly different from many of the previous throne speeches. It was short, to the point and presents the premier's vision for the long-term future.
The budget promises no new taxes or tax-rate increases. The budget indicates further revenue increases. The budget has dovetailed with the throne speech, and in particular with three-year budgeting for municipalities, education, advanced education and innovation. As well, there's dollars for agriculture and measures to help keep seniors in their homes. I am very pleased with the increased funding for AISH recipients and even more pleased that they can keep more money that they earn. Many can only work sporadically, but it helps them towards self esteem, pride and a real independence. But, I will continue to push for a predictable funding formula for the future.
The throne speech is a foundational document that calls for change in the way Albertans will be governed and is based on what Albertans have been saying and asking questions about for many past years. Albertans want transparency and accountabilty. The throne speech reflects that intent and will have systems in place to evaluate if those criteria are being met in the new results-based budgeting.
Albertans want to be involved. However, having said that, I was disappointed in the fact that the hearings for the review of the MLAs salaries and benefits had to be cancelled in Lethbridge for lack of interest. And yet I have heard many times over, that MLAs are overpaid with huge perks and benefits.
I firmly believe no elected person should set their own salary, because it is public taxpayer's dollars. I believe it should be set by an independent person and that is exactly what is taking place. Judge John C. (Jack) Major CC QC is going through the province listening to people and asking what they think is fair and will also evaluate against other jurisdictions of like size and responsibility. I am sure there are other factors he will consider before writing his report and recommendations, which again I believe should be taken as given and not have MLAs try to change it. There is still an opportunity for you to be heard. Written submissions will be accepted until February 24, submissions@MLAcompensation review/ab.ca
Bill 1, the results-based budgeting act, is now in debate in second reading. The budget is to be based on outcomes that must be justified as to their effectiveness in meeting stated objectives for social and economic progress for Albertans and must be efficient in the way Albertans money is spent. Government departments will have comprehensive reviews once during every three-year cycle. That will include agencies, boards and commissions, in addition to the Alberta Heritage Savings Trust Fund, capital infrastructure projects, gaming revenue and importantly operational budgets.
In the past, Albertans have stated through the opposition MLAs and various organizations that represent different stakeholder groups such as ATA, AUMA and AAMD&C that education, advanced education and municipalities needed sustainable and predictable funding. The throne speech indicates the premier has listened, and there will be predictable, three-year funding cycles for those entities.
The throne speech recognizes that agriculture is the largest renewable industry in our province and that our rural communities are the critical piece to ensure it remains successful to feed us and the many markets that our producers send their commodities to.
The strength of our rural communities in Alberta is a large part of our success, now and for the long-term. Long-term planning is essential for the 21st century, although with our technology changing so fast it is hard to predict, and I haven't seen any crystal balls that really worked. >But, the point is a short term focus (that is often political driven) only responds to immediate symptoms which can grow into long-term problems. Some of the strategies used for the last 20 years, especially in health, social services, seniors and for the vulnerable, haven't been all that successful; clearly it is time for a different approach.
There is a line in the speech that I feel very connected with and I quote "A strong Alberta is one that can put aside jurisdictional difference and stand as a proud, committed and constructive member of confederation."
The time for firewall thinking is past; we can lead in productivity and be competitive, especially in technology knowledge.
Because of our resources, oil, gas and agriculture, our workforce, our educational system and especially in technology knowledge, and a new way of governing, Alberta will lead. But I believe that with that power it carries a tremendous responsibility to us, our country and the international community. It can be a win win for all. Please call me with you questions and concerns at 403 320-1011.