In the latest episode of Alberta Update, Premier Danielle Smith renewed her opposition to the federal government’s emissions cap and emphasized the need for policies that support energy infrastructure and investor confidence in Alberta.
Citing a recent report from the Conference Board of Canada, Smith warned the emissions cap would reduce Alberta’s GDP by 11 per cent and further hinder development. “They seem intent to continue on with the same devastating policies that have essentially locked in our resources and driven away investment for the last 10 years,” she said.
The premier Smith noted that while the prime minister Carney previously signalled he was not in favour of hard caps, the federal government has since confirmed the cap will proceed. “It’s difficult for us to really understand if there is going to be a change in direction,” she said. “I have to presume there isn’t until we actually see any action.”
Smith said the province will continue its public advocacy campaign to highlight the economic impact of the cap. “We’re going to keep on with that advocacy until the message gets through,” she said.
A new poll commissioned by the province showed majority support for building more pipelines and refineries across Canada. Smith described it as a sign of momentum. “Even in Quebec, there is a super majority of people who want to see these kinds of economic corridors and pipelines developed.”
Smith pointed to a recent communiqué signed by all premiers and the federal government supporting the development of economic corridors, including new oil and gas infrastructure, transmission lines, roads and rail. However, she warned that regulatory delays and overlapping climate policies could prevent meaningful progress.
“It doesn’t matter what you put on paper,” Smith said. “You actually have to have policies in place that give investor confidence to allow the investment to take place.”
The premier also expressed concern about the role of the Bloc Québécois in federal energy discussions, calling the party’s stance “a disappointment” and saying it seeks to “throw a monkey wrench into the national consensus.”
On international relations, Smith said she has continued lobbying efforts in the United States to emphasize Alberta’s role in the North American energy supply chain. “I will talk to anyone who wants to hear the Alberta story and the Canadian story,” she said, noting that a tariff-free relationship is in the interest of both countries.
Smith also criticized a recent announcement by Liberal leadership contender Mark Carney, who appeared to support eliminating the consumer carbon tax. Calling it “a staged photo op,” she said fuel prices have risen since the announcement and called for greater transparency.
“What I’d like to see on April 1st is that if the carbon tax indeed does come off, everybody should see a 17 cent decline in the amount that they’re paying at the pump,” she said. The premier added that Alberta’s consumer protection team would monitor gas pricing to ensure savings are passed on to drivers.