I am pleased to report that the United Conservative Party (UCP) has chosen Jason Kenney as our new leader. Jason has an impressive record, including having served in several important ministries for the Harper government from 2006 until 2015. His work ethic is second to none and I’m positive that all Albertans will benefit greatly from his contributions as leader of Her Majesty’s Official Opposition. Jason will be seeking a seat in the legislature in the upcoming Calgary-Lougheed by-election.
Jason Kenney has appointed me to be the Shadow Minister of Energy. I thank him for his trust in me to handle this most important portfolio. I am excited to be able to leverage my 28 years of Oil & Gas industry experience to suggest opportunities for this government to implement sound policy in this area. I leave behind the Economic Development and Trade portfolio, where I was critic for two years, into the capable hands of Calgary-Fish Creek MLA Richard Gotfried. I am grateful for all of the advice and information provided by Albertans everywhere that I know will be very relevant to me in my Energy Critic role.
The government has released the first draft of its Alberta Cannabis Framework and the UCP Opposition has called for more stringent guidelines to ensure the wellbeing of all Albertans. In particular, we are asking for greater details to ensure that cannabis is kept out of the hands of young people, and to ensure that municipalities and law enforcement are well supported as we move towards the July 2018 deadline when cannabis use will become legal in this province.
The holiday season is upon us and I wish each of you a Merry Christmas! Cherish these days to strengthen the bonds within your own family.
Prasad Panda, MLA Calgary-Foothills
