A Competitive Alberta

March 17, 2010 10:05 pm 2 comments

I attended a reception and dinner hosted by the Alberta Chambers of Commerce tonight as part of the Political Action Day event on behalf of the Sherwood Park and District Chamber of Commerce.

I have to admit that the highlight for me was two-fold.  First, when the premier stated that our proposed hospital here in Sherwood Park (and others across the province) would be going ahead.  Also, when I went up and said hello to Premier Stelmach and shook his hand after the post dinner Q&A.  He provided me with a warm hello and mentioned that he hasn’t been out to Sherwood Park in awhile.  Premier, the invitation to return and speak at a Chamber function is certainly open.

A question was put to Premier Stelmach by Danielle Klooster from Red Deer in support of earlier discussion about a “diversified economy” and asking about specific strategies the Government of Alberta had in play that were designed to open up new international markets, and foreign investment thus making us more competitive.

“That’s a loaded question,” the premier responded.  In other words, a complex question.  The premier talked about education being a key to a diversified economy, he referred to Port Alberta although not by name, and understanding the larger picture such as an “open skies” agreement that would change all the protectionism of Air Canada and allow foreign airlines to enter Canada with routes to places like Abu Dhabi, a location the premier visited recently.

During this, I couldn’t help but think how much more competitive Alberta would be if it was “Open.”  How municipalities across our province would benefit and by extension Albertans-at-large.  A more efficient government, considerable tax dollars saved, increased private sector opportunities.

Premier Stelmach mentioned that tomorrow a Competitiveness Bill will be brought forward and is expected to pass, he considers this an important Bill because in his words, “Alberta will not retire.”  Explaining that being strong stewards means smart succession planning for future generations.

As many know by now, I believe that an Open Government Framework should be a key part of a “competitive Alberta” today and in the future.  Time will tell if this idea starts to gain traction, I hope it does. Let me know what you think.

  • danielleklooster

    Thanks for the mention, Walter. Whenever I ask that question of government, I keep hoping I'll hear that they have solid plans (or even a loose conceptual idea) to move away from such heavy dependence on oil & gas, to genuinely stabilize and diversify the economy. I'll post my thoughts on my blog instead of cluttering up yours with my rantings and ramblings but I will say I find the continued gathering of eggs into one basket for raw export while paying lip service to diversification and value-added inudstry a frustration.

  • http://twitter.com/fusedlogic Walter Schwabe

    I completely agree Danielle, we're not diversified yet, not even close. I agree that education is critical, however, that doesn't help the masses on the ground at the moment in IT for example who are innovating and could be doing more. The voucher program is fine but not the only answer. More needs to be done. Thanks for commenting, I look forward to your post.