As Premier Danielle Smith and Bruce McAllister sit down for a special edition of “Alberta Update,” the discussion offers a candid reflection on the year 2024 and a forward-looking glimpse into the challenges and opportunities awaiting the province in 2025. The conversation reveals a busy year marked by both achievements and ongoing struggles, from trade relations to healthcare reforms, and from Alberta’s economic boom to its expanding infrastructure.
The discussion opens with a pressing issue: the ongoing tensions with the United States over tariffs and trade. At the heart of the debate is the lack of a stable federal partner, with Smith pointing out the challenges Alberta faces under the federal leadership. The United States, Smith argues, has taken advantage of Canada’s political instability to threaten tariffs on Canadian goods, a situation that has left Alberta, especially its energy sector, vulnerable.
Smith advocates for a more robust approach to international trade, urging the federal government to either secure a new mandate or allow for a leadership change. She stresses that Alberta, alongside Ontario, has been forced to take on an active role in addressing these issues, with both provinces becoming the face of Canada’s trade negotiations.
To mitigate the situation, Smith has called for focused efforts on strengthening Alberta’s borders, with the introduction of a $29 million initiative to combat smuggling and human trafficking. While the efforts are commendable, Smith remains critical of the federal government’s lack of focus on critical trade irritants.
Smith’s “Sovereignty Act” takes center stage next. The act is designed to assert Alberta’s exclusive jurisdiction in areas the federal government has encroached upon. The Premier argues that her government’s stance is a necessary defense of Alberta’s rights under the Constitution. While some criticized the act for its bold name and intent, Smith now views it as essential for pushing back against federal overreach, especially on energy policies that have the potential to harm Alberta’s economy.
Smith’s leadership has led to significant policy shifts, particularly in the energy sector, where Alberta’s autonomy is increasingly important in the face of national regulatory pressures. The Premier, once again, mentioned that Alberta’s energy industry should not be forced to align with federal net-zero targets that would harm the province’s economic backbone.
On the economic front, Premier Smith highlights the province’s remarkable growth in private-sector job creation. Alberta has consistently outpaced the rest of the country in terms of new job creation, a testament to its favorable business environment. Despite the benefits of attracting new workers, Smith acknowledges the balancing act required to ensure the province’s infrastructure keeps pace with its growing population.
A key component of Alberta’s growth is its commitment to creating new schools and increasing education capacity. The province’s plan to build 30 new schools annually is aimed at addressing the demand from a rapidly expanding student population. This initiative, combined with increased healthcare spending, underscores the government’s commitment to improving the quality of life for all Albertans, regardless of their age or income level.
One of the most significant initiatives is the reform of the healthcare system. Premier Smith acknowledges the challenges in the healthcare sector, particularly with the need for more family doctors and specialized care providers. To address this, the government has introduced new models for primary care, including deals with pharmacies and nurse practitioners. The aim is to ensure every Albertan has access to a family doctor and comprehensive care.
Smith also discusses the importance of addressing mental health and addiction issues, which have put a strain on Alberta’s emergency rooms and hospital beds. To help alleviate these pressures, the government is investing in more mental health beds and focused treatment centers. Additionally, with the aging population, the government is exploring new models for long-term care and assisted living to ensure that seniors receive the care they need without burdening hospitals.
2024 was not without its environmental challenges, with wildfires wreaking havoc in Alberta, particularly in Jasper. The Premier reflects on the provincial government’s efforts to manage the fires, despite the complexities of federal jurisdiction over national parks and First Nations lands. While Alberta has developed a robust wildfire management system, Smith is frustrated by the lack of coordination with the federal government, when it comes to disaster recovery.
The Premier remains committed to improving Alberta’s response to climate-related challenges, but she stresses the need for a unified approach to disaster management and recovery. In the aftermath of the wildfires, Smith is advocating for a more streamlined, proactive approach that will prevent future setbacks for Alberta communities.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities in 2025
As Premier Smith looks ahead to 2025, she anticipates both challenges and opportunities. Among the key issues for the year ahead are Alberta’s aging infrastructure, including the need for better healthcare facilities, and the provincial government’s plans to tackle the legacy of inactive oil and gas wells.
Smith’s government is also focused on finding new opportunities for economic growth, particularly in emerging industries like artificial intelligence and data centers. Alberta’s attractiveness as a business destination, combined with its resources and skilled workforce, positions the province well to capitalize on the evolving global economy.
However, Smith also acknowledges that there will be challenges in balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility. The Premier continues to advocate for a more practical approach to environmental policies that align with Alberta’s unique circumstances while promoting sustainability and innovation.
Reflecting on 2024, Premier Danielle Smith emphasizes the transformative changes that will take place across Alberta. From energy and trade to healthcare and infrastructure, the province is navigating an era of rapid growth and significant challenges. The new year will bring new opportunities to reshape the province’s economic and social landscape, and Smith is prepared to face these challenges head-on, with a focus on collaboration, practical solutions, and long-term success.