This release was issued under a previous government.
It’s the latest step in the government’s plan to improve services and ensure value for taxpayers throughout all public agencies.
“The boardroom tables of our agencies need to reflect today’s Alberta. Boards need more equitable, inclusive representation in order to put the diversity and strengths of our province to work. That can only happen when all Albertans know that board opportunities exist, and all feel welcome to apply. We want average Albertans who care about their community, who might not have thought this was an option, to step up and serve.”
A new website, boards.alberta.ca, invites Albertans from all walks of life to easily search and apply online for opportunities with agencies, boards and commissions, or “ABCs.”
A notification tool on the website allows candidates to receive email alerts when specific board opportunities arise. The site also details the individuals currently appointed to boards, including remuneration, current vacancies, and the term of each appointment.
Hundreds of agencies, boards and commissions operate at arm’s-length from government and provide leadership in advisory, regulatory, corporate enterprise, service delivery and public trust roles. Alberta Health Services, Travel Alberta, the Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training Board and the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission are a few well-known examples. Others include the New Homebuyer Protection Board, the Metis Settlements Appeal Tribunal, and the Irrigation Council.
The new recruiting tool is the most recent initiative in the government’s commitment to improving Alberta’s agencies, boards and commissions and ensuring value for taxpayers. A review launched in the fall of 2015 has already resulted in amalgamating or dissolving 26 public agencies, saving $33 million over three years.
“The diversity of Alberta's population should be reflected in all levels of government and senior management, including agencies, commissions, and boards. When individuals with diverse backgrounds are represented on ABCs, policies that serve the interest of diverse populations and marginalized populations are more likely to make it onto the policy agenda and be implemented. It is a pleasure to know that the Government of Alberta is implementing proactive equity focused policies to ensure that all Albertan's are represented in decision making positions. This will serve to promote a more healthy and prosperous Alberta for all.”
“Alberta is a province rich with diversity – both of our people and their experiences. That’s why it is so important that our boards reflect that diversity. As the chair for the Apprenticeship and Training Board I am so pleased to see government taking action today, to ensure our boards are dynamic, well-represented and a true reflection of Alberta.”
“I believe that future generations will benefit from diverse voices on Alberta’s Agencies, Boards and Commissions. Specifically, Indigenous representation on provincial boards is of the utmost importance on a road to reconciliation. I believe today is a step in the right direction towards the inclusion of First Peoples and the original voices who have bee a part of Alberta since time immemorial.”
“It’s through my own lived experiences that I am able to bring a firsthand knowledge to my role on the Interagency Council on Homelessness. Albertans throughout the province have real life experiences that are valuable addition to the work that agencies, boards and commissions do every day. I applaud the government for creating a process that enables Albertans, from every walk of life, to help shape the future of our province.”
“Having spent 46 years in the book industry and as a business leader in the downtown community, I know very well the value of the arts to an individual and to the city. Being on the MacEwan University Board of Governors is my first public sector experience and I am looking forward to bringing my own knowledge to the role, while also getting the opportunity to work collaboratively in a bicameral governance model, where the Board makes financial decisions and the academic staff make academic decisions.”
“The chance to sit on one of Alberta’s many agencies, boards and commissions is an excellent way for committed community leaders to give back to the province. These governing bodies allow Albertans to share their expertise and experience in order to shape the future of this province. I encourage all Albertans to check out the website to see what opportunities are available to give back and create a brighter future for all.”
“Working on behalf of Albertans to provide governance for a provincial agency is an honour and a privilege. Since the mandate of an organization such as the Health Quality Council of Alberta has the potential to impact all Albertans, transparency around recruitment, encouraging applications and appointing a board that is reflective of all voices, is important, not just for our organization but for the province as a whole.”