Alberta Premier Danielle Smith made a guest appearance on CTV News Channel’s weekday political program, POWER PLAY, hosted by Vassy Kapelos, to discuss the federal carbon pricing scheme and its implications for the province. During the conversation, Premier Smith raised concerns about the carbon tax and its impact on Alberta, hinting at a potential challenge to the federal policy at the Supreme Court.
The discussion started with a mention of comments made by Rural Economic Development Minister Goudie Hutchings, who suggested that regions could secure favorable treatment under the carbon tax by electing more liberals. Premier Smith, the leader of Alberta, expressed her thoughts on the issue and the potential challenges her province faces due to the federal carbon pricing program. The Minister’s comments implied that the federal government could be influenced by the political affiliations of provinces when implementing the carbon tax.
Vassy Kapelos asked Premier Smith if she would consider a similar approach to that of Saskatchewan’s Premier, Scott Moe, who threatened to order SaskEnergy to stop collecting the carbon tax if natural gas in his province doesn’t receive the same exemption. Premier Smith explained that while Saskatchewan, with its Crown Corporation, has certain advantages, Alberta’s private market structure would make it challenging to take such action without causing problems for the industry.
Premier Smith emphasized the need for a political solution to the carbon tax issue and called on the federal government to acknowledge the harm caused by the tax. She argued that the tax should be lifted on all home heating and fuel sources across the country, highlighting the importance of treating all regions fairly.
When asked about private conversations with the Prime Minister to secure a carve-out for Albertans, Premier Smith explained that it’s not easy to reach the Prime Minister but mentioned that her ministers are engaged in discussions with federal counterparts.
Premier Smith defended her stance by pointing out that the federal government should take responsibility for the flawed carbon tax policy. She argued that the current exemptions and special deals indicated that the basis for the carbon tax was flawed and that Canadians were right to be concerned about the lack of fairness.
Addressing criticism from some federal liberals who accused her of undermining national unity while simultaneously considering leaving the Canada Pension Plan, Premier Smith clarified that the situations were different. She maintained that the federal government’s decisions had led to the current issues with the carbon tax.
The conversation turned to the potential referendum on leaving the Canada Pension Plan. Premier Smith stressed the importance of obtaining a clear and precise number for the transfer, premiums, and benefits. She also mentioned that the decision to hold a referendum would depend on the feedback received from the public and their preferences.
Premier Smith concluded the discussion by expressing her commitment to working towards a fair solution for Albertans in the context of the carbon tax and other issues impacting the province. The interview provided insight into the challenges Alberta faces and the ongoing debate over the federal carbon pricing scheme.