Province of Alberta to offer virtual treatment for addiction
Posted inAlberta News Canadian News human interest

Province of Alberta to offer virtual treatment for addiction

Recovery Alberta has launched the Virtual Rapid Access Addiction Medicine (VRAAM) program, allowing individuals to receive substance abuse treatment from home. The program connects patients with medical professionals and support specialists via virtual consultations. It aims to improve access to care, especially in rural areas, and reduce health inequities across Alberta.
Albertans urged to push back against two-tiered health system
Posted inAlberta News Canadian News health

Albertans urged to push back against two-tiered health system

The Alberta Government's draft legislation aims to introduce two-tier health care, allowing doctors to work in both public and private sectors. Critics, including Chris Gallaway from Friends of Medicare, warn it could worsen the existing physician shortage and increase wait times, urging public opposition similar to past backlash against similar proposals.
Wilderness groups slam Alberta’s approach to caribou protection
Posted inAlberta News Canadian News Climate

Wilderness groups slam Alberta’s approach to caribou protection

Four organizations condemn Alberta's finalized Upper Smoky Sub-Regional Plan, claiming it neglects caribou protection amid habitat destruction. Despite provincial assurances of balancing economy and conservation, critics argue that resource development threatens caribou populations, emphasizing that logging will impede recovery efforts and jeopardize the species' survival in the region.
Posted inAlberta News LJI News Politics

All northern Alberta MLAs against removing Lesser Slave Lake riding

Alberta's Electoral Boundary Commission proposes removing the Lesser Slave Lake riding, facing opposition from all ten MLAs in northern Alberta. Concerns include increased size and lost representation, impacting community ties and travel times within large ridings. Local leaders fear these changes may lead to voter confusion and diminished political voice.
beautiful barista pours coffee at a small town coffee shop
Posted inAlberta News Canadian News economy

High youth unemployment justifies lack of movement on minimum wage, UCP says

The UCP is cautious about raising Alberta's minimum wage due to potential increases in youth unemployment. A proposed bill aims to raise the minimum wage to $16 this year and adjust it annually based on inflation. Critics argue that current policies inadequately address affordability, with many minimum wage workers living below the poverty line.
Posted inAlberta News Canadian News Politics

Smith and Moe playing nice with federal budget, for now

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe displayed mild reactions to the recent federal budget, which mandates compliance with industrial carbon pricing standards. Their statements suggest ongoing negotiations may influence future policies. While advocating for provincial interests, they risk alienating federal support necessary for projects like pipelines amidst changing climate policy discussions.
Documents show Alberta government not planning for separation from Canada
Posted inAlberta News Canadian News LJI News

Documents show Alberta government not planning for separation from Canada

Danielle Smith, Alberta's Premier, has proposed the idea of Alberta's independence but documents reveal that the provincial government has not conducted serious economic analysis regarding this potential separation. Former finance officials argue that the lack of research indicates the government is not genuinely considering separation, viewing it instead as a tactical negotiation.
Province of Alberta cuts funding mid-year to program for Indigenous mothers who’ve faced domestic violence
Posted inAlberta News crime human interest

Province of Alberta cuts funding mid-year to program for Indigenous mothers who’ve faced domestic violence

The Alberta government has cut $135,000 in funding for the Circle of Safety program, which supports Indigenous mothers facing domestic violence. ACSA seeks private donations to continue the program amid increasing demand and a growing wait list. Despite efforts to secure other funding, ACSA emphasizes the need for immediate support.