Despite losing more than half of its MLAs to the ruling PCs, the Wildrose party will continue to push the government to meet rural community needs, including more infrastructure funding, says interim Wildrose leader Heather Forsyth.
Appointed interim leader on Dec. 22, Forsyth says her party remains committed to being an effective opposition to the Prentice PCs.
“We will continue to represent all Albertans and advocate on behalf of all Albertans, for the needs of every community across this province, including the rural communities,” Forsyth told the Gazette.
Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills MLA Bruce Rowe and Wildrose Leader Danielle Smith joined seven other Wildrose MLAs in crossing to the PCs on Dec. 17. Innisfail-Sylvan Lake MLA Kerry Towle crossed to the PCs on Nov. 24.
“There is no doubt that the overwhelming majority of Albertans feel hurt (by the defections) and they feel that their noble notion of public life has been shattered,” said Forsyth.
“That has been crystal clear throughout this last week and more than ever people have taken this personally. People are very upset. Alberta deserves an Opposition and it's not only the 440,000-plus Albertans who voted for us in the last election.”
Despite the defections, the Wildrose party remains financially viable, she said.
“We are trying to ensure all the jobs we can,” she said.
Asked if she plans to seek the permanent leadership of the party, she said, “not at this time.”
“I will be the interim leader until a new leader is picked,” she said.
A date for a Wildrose leadership race had not been set at press time Wednesday.
