The economic downturn created in part by the steep drop in oil prices starting more than a year ago continues to impact communities across the province.
The economic downturn created in part by the steep drop in oil prices starting more than a year ago continues to impact communities across the province.
Whether Alberta is moving towards better times – as the Notley government is now claiming – or remains stuck in economic doldrums that are at least in part being caused by NDP policies, remains an open question.
What is certain is that Albertans continue to hope against hope that elected officials will finally start working together to turn things around.
Deron Bilous, minister of economic development and trade, says the province is "getting back on its feet" with the NDP government leading the way forward toward renewed prosperity.
"Too many families are struggling with job losses and uncertainty, so we took decisive action with a plan that's creating jobs now," Bilous said last week.
"We're getting back on our feet and we are working together to build a stronger, more resilient and diversified economy Alberta families can count on. And we'll keep listening to Albertans about how to help stimulate economic growth."
Programs implemented through the NDP's Alberta Jobs Plan are "building infrastructure, diversifying the economy, driving business growth and increasing investment in Alberta companies," he said.
Over the past three months the provincewide job loss trend has reversed, with 25,000 jobs added, he said.
The Opposition Wildrose says that returning Alberta to prosperity will require a complete change of course by the government.
"The NDP government has brought forward a full slate of policies that have taxed and regulated jobs and businesses out of existence," said Wildrose Leader Brian Jean.
"Even Premier Notley has admitted that carbon tax will mean hundreds of millions (of dollars) pulled out of our economy and will mean another hit to jobs."
Wildrose economic development critic Prasad Panda added, "If the minister is serious about bringing investment back to Alberta, he would convince his colleagues to scrap several of their damaging tax increases and burdensome new regulations."
Obviously the government and the official Opposition remain far apart on what can and should be done to get Alberta's economy back on track. And that's bad news for Alberta.
Dan Singleton is the editor of Mountain View Gazette
