Recovery Alberta closes Edmonton addiction program; 600 dropped from waiting list

Recovery Alberta closes Edmonton addiction program; 600 dropped from waiting list

Recovery Alberta is permanently closing the Henwood Treatment Centre in Edmonton, shocking staff and hundreds of individuals seeking addiction treatment. Despite being the largest provincially-run facility in the region, Henwood's closure stems from flooding and has left many without alternatives. Concerns about the government's future plans and lack of transparency persist.
Company behind data centre lobbying Alberta government for project approval

Company behind data centre lobbying Alberta government for project approval

Synapse Real Estate Corp. has hired lobbyists connected to Alberta’s United Conservative Party to revive its rejected data centre project in Olds, which includes a significant power plant and backup generators. The Alberta Utilities Commission paused the application process pending further information. Synapse is lobbying for expedited regulations under Alberta’s new "Bring Your Own Generation" laws.
Alberta Prosperity Project’s Jeffrey Rath shoots down Premier’s independence cost estimate

Alberta Prosperity Project’s Jeffrey Rath shoots down Premier’s independence cost estimate

Jeffrey Rath, a leader of the Alberta Prosperity Project, disputes the Alberta premier's claims about the costs of independence. The group has gathered over 300,000 signatures for a referendum on Alberta's separation from Canada, scheduled for October 19. Rath emphasizes the potential economic benefits of independence despite significant startup costs.
Nenshi warns province must proceed with caution in the midst of AI ‘gold rush’

Nenshi warns province must proceed with caution in the midst of AI ‘gold rush’

Alberta is experiencing a surge in AI data centers, which may strain resources and raise utility costs without creating substantial long-term jobs, according to NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi. He criticizes the provincial government for overlooking environmental assessments and argues that immediate labor shortages in traditional sectors are being ignored amid political distractions.
Alberta merging health care number, proof of citizenship with driver’s licence

Alberta merging health care number, proof of citizenship with driver’s licence

The Alberta government plans to include proof of citizenship and health care numbers on driver's licences starting July 2nd, aiming to simplify access to services. This move has sparked mixed reactions, with concerns about privacy and potential fraud raised by officials and opposition parties, framing it as a political tool rather than a practical change.
Alberta Separation question formally added to October referendum

Alberta Separation question formally added to October referendum

Alberta's Premier Danielle Smith announced an additional question for the Oct. 19 referendum regarding the province's status in Canada. This query asks if Alberta should initiate a legal process for a binding referendum on potential separation. The decision follows a court ruling affecting a separation petition. Smith emphasizes the importance of public input in shaping Alberta's future.
Alberta fire chiefs seek enhancements to roadside safety messaging

Alberta fire chiefs seek enhancements to roadside safety messaging

In Alberta, there is confusion regarding the rules for passing emergency vehicles. The Alberta Fire Chiefs Association urges a renewed public awareness campaign to emphasize the need to slow down to 60 km/h and move over when driving past stopped emergency vehicles. Enhanced visibility measures, like blue lights, aim to improve safety, but enforcement remains a concern.
Opposition MLA questions Province’s new music plan

Opposition MLA questions Province’s new music plan

The Alberta Music Action Plan aims to enhance the local music scene without direct financial support for artists. Minister Tanya Fir described it as a roadmap for maximizing existing funding through an Alberta Music Commission. Critics, including NDP’s Joe Ceci, argue it overlooks artist benefits and lacks a comprehensive growth strategy.
Gripe less and explore more, critic advises UCP

Gripe less and explore more, critic advises UCP

The federal government's "30-by-30 strategy" aims to protect 30% of Canada's land by 2030, noted as ambitious by Alberta's Opposition critic Sarah Elmeligi. However, concerns arise over a $3.8 billion funding commitment and definitions of protected areas. Alberta’s environment minister Grant Hunter argues the province surpasses these conservation goals, challenging federal mandates.