RED DEER – As the provincial election campaign enters its second week, United Conservative Party (UCP) leader Jason Kenney continues to drive home his message that his party is the only one that can return prosperity back to Albertans.
“We are offering a positive plan for re-igniting our economy and fighting for Alberta," said Kenney.
“We’re also going to stand by our farmers. We are going to repeal Bill 6 and let our farmers grow again.”
Kenney made a stop in Red Deer on Saturday, March 23 to speak with party faithful and supporters.
He was joined by several area UCP candidates including Nathan Cooper (Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills) and Innisfail-Sylvan Lake’s Devin Dreeshen.
“They are part of a strong team that’s ready to lead and ready to get Alberta back on track,” said Kenney, noting such issues as unemployment, provincial debt, carbon tax, Central Alberta crime and agriculture.
Dreeshen said a key issue in the campaign is returning prosperity and hope for citizens in the region.
“We need to see jobs back in Central Alberta,” said Dreeshen. “Central Alberta has been hit the hardest over the last four years when it comes to unemployment rates. It’s great to see that a strong economic message is going to come to Central Alberta (with the UCP).
“Albertans are really focused on the economy and getting rid of the carbon tax. Those are the top two issues (for this election),” he added.
A large crowd of supporters and area residents filled the parking lot outside Adriana LaGrange’s campaign office on Saturday to hear from Kenney.
Penhold resident Cameron Galisky was one youthful supporter who came to hear Kenney's message of hope.
“I think there’s a lot of enthusiasm right now in Central Alberta for this campaign. There’s a strong message of bringing economic prosperity to Alberta,” said Galisky, who is a volunteer with Devin Dreeshen’s campaign.
The 19-year-old said he can relate to many issues facing Central Albertans.
“Youth unemployment in Alberta is at record levels and I believe the NDP don’t have a solution for that,” he said.
“Those issues hit very close to home. I’ve had my brother laid off from several jobs. He’s trying to break into mechanic work and I think if we have an economic environment where you can succeed by your own work, you should be able to,” he added. “I think Jason (Kenney) is definitely the man to get it done. I think he’s the best option for it right now.”
Two all-candidates forums are scheduled for early next month, on April 4 in Sylvan Lake and April 8 in Innisfail at the Innisfail Royal Canadian Legion at 7 p.m.
