News

Albertans are asked to continue to be diligent as hot and dry conditions are expected this weekend.

Motorists should expect weekend travel delays on southwest Anthony Henday Drive at the North Saskatchewan River bridges.

With the wildfire situation continuing to improve, Alberta’s provincial state of emergency is expiring but all resourcing and support remains in place. 

Albertans planning to recreate on Crown land this weekend are asked to put safety first to reduce the risk of wildfire. 

Alberta’s government is removing costs for wildfire evacuees who need replacement identification so they can access services they may need as soon as possible.

The Government of Canada and the Government of Alberta have announced a coordinated donation matching program with the Canadian Red Cross to support the disaster relief efforts in Alberta communities impacted by the devastating wildfires. 

The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) has begun to move out to support Alberta as the province battles unprecedented wildfires.

The Coronation celebration originally planned for Saturday, May 13 at the University of Alberta Botanic Garden has been cancelled due to the ongoing wildfire situation in the province.

Albertans forced to evacuate their homes due to ongoing wildfires will soon receive emergency financial assistance. 

Orders approved – May 6, 2023

In response to the threat of multiple wildfires burning throughout the province, Alberta has declared a provincial state of emergency to ensure the safety, health and welfare of Albertans.

The following statement was issued by the Premier’s Office on the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla: 

The following statement was issued by the Premier’s Office on the current wildfire situation in Alberta:

The Office of the Lieutenant Governor is joining with the University of Alberta in a special celebration to mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III. The free public event takes place Saturday, May 13 at the University of Alberta Botanic Garden.

On Saturday, May 6, volunteer groups will be cleaning up trash on the sides of highways during the annual highway cleanup.

Orders Approved – May 1, 2023

Alberta’s government is helping Indigenous and ethnocultural communities preserve and share their history by launching a $1-million grant.

Minister of Health Jason Copping issued the following statement on receiving the final reports from the Modernizing Alberta’s Primary Health Care System (MAPS) panels:

Budget 2023 is unlocking the economic potential of northern Alberta by twinning nearly 12 kilometres of Highway 63 north of Fort McMurray to improve safety and reduce commuter travel times.

Parliamentary Secretary for Status of Women Tanya Fir issued this statement recognizing Sexual Violence Awareness Month: 

Minister of Jobs, Economy and Northern Development Brian Jean issued the following statement on the National Day of Mourning: 

Alberta and Loon River First Nation, Peerless Trout First Nation and Bigstone Cree Nation have signed an agreement to begin work to extend Highway 686 to Fort McMurray, connecting northeastern and northwestern Alberta.

Environment and Protected Areas has laid charges against John Andrew Beck for not following environmental legislation.

Alberta’s government is expanding mental health supports in schools to support positive mental health outcomes for children and youth.

The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) has completed its investigation into a 2020 incident and released the assistant executive director’s full report on it.

A pilot project teaming Alberta Sheriffs with police is improving public safety in Edmonton’s inner-city neighbourhoods.

A pilot project that teams Alberta Sheriffs with Calgary police beat patrols is improving public safety in the city’s core.

Alberta’s government is recognizing the role ranchers play in managing Crown rangelands by establishing a Rangeland Grazing Framework.

Alberta chief firearms officer Teri Bryant issued the following statement on federal government plans to implement a firearms confiscation program: 

Albertans are seeing ambulances arriving sooner and shorter wait times for surgeries and emergency care. 

Alberta’s government is investing $2.8 million in Calgary Economic Development and Edmonton Global to enhance investment attraction activities in Alberta. 

Alberta’s government has selected the winning bidders on two Deerfoot Trail projects that will help Calgary families get around the city safer and faster, reducing time stuck in traffic and allowing more time at home.

Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation Nate Horner issued the following statement on the upcoming growing season in Alberta: 

Calgary residents with serious heart conditions will soon have better access to coronary and intensive care now that construction to redevelop the Rockyview General Hospital has begun on three projects.

Alberta’s government, the City of Calgary and the Calgary Exhibition and Stampede have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to enable construction of a new world-class arena and event centre.

Alberta’s government is investing in a two-lane roundabout at the intersection of Highway 20 and Memorial Trail in Sylvan Lake to accommodate increased traffic and development in the area.

Alberta’s government is paying tribute to Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by ensuring her name is a lasting and prominent fixture at Alberta’s legislature grounds.

Budget 2023 ensures continuing care residents live in modern buildings and in their own private spaces, where they will receive the personalized care and supports they need.

Alberta’s government is investing more funding into domestic violence prevention and supporting food security in women’s shelters across the province.

A Fugitive Apprehension Sheriffs Support Team (FASST) is being created to ensure that offenders accused and convicted of crimes are swiftly brought to justice.

Alberta’s government is investing almost $1.9 million to expand the Northern Alberta Development Council (NADC) Bursary program.

Alberta’s government is investing an additional $150,000 in the John Ware Youth Empowerment Program.

Alberta is now accepting applications for the new Agri-processing Investment Tax Credit program. 

A new recovery community on Enoch Cree Nation will help support people struggling with addiction in the Edmonton area.

Alberta’s government is investing in improvements to Highway 28 to support economic growth in northeastern Alberta.

Alberta’s government is supporting Indigenous self-administered policing with a partnership with Siksika Nation, including $75,000 that was provided to help the nation finalize its business case.

Budget 2023 adds $12 million for new beds and dedicated staff to provide better access to pediatric hospital care.

Alberta will require individuals and organizations employed to confiscate firearms to first be licensed by the province.

Alberta’s government is investing $3.5 million in Healthy Aging Alberta to ensure accessible and affordable transportation for seniors throughout the province.

Alberta’s government is investing $8 million to help make sport, physical activity and recreation more accessible through the new Every Kid Can Play program

A new interchange in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland will improve safety, support the movement of heavy trucks and boost economic growth in the region.

Minister of Health Jason Copping issued the following statement correcting incorrect information about cancer surgeries performed in Alberta:

Premier Danielle Smith issued this statement on the April 21 meeting of Canada’s Premiers with the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police:

An unsolicited proposal for a law enforcement and transportation industry training facility in Beaumont has moved to the next stage of evaluations.

Indigenous organizations can apply for funding from the Indigenous Reconciliation Initiative and the Aboriginal Business Investment Fund starting April 21.

Alberta wants to work with other provinces to improve the federal Equalization Program to benefit all Canadians.

Highway 686 paving will support area First Nation communities, promote economic growth, enhance safety and create potential for future economic corridor development.

Alberta’s government is investing $5 million in 2023-2024 to train the skilled employees the province’s thriving aerospace industry requires.

Advanced Education is investing more than $3 million to support rehabilitation and therapy for veterans through world-leading research at the University of Alberta.

Premier Danielle Smith issued this statement to those who celebrate Eid al-Fitr.

Alberta’s government is providing an additional $240 million over three years to increase access to vital supports for Albertans with developmental disabilities.

Alberta’s government and the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on small modular reactors.

Orders Approved – April 20, 2023.

Drivers are advised to plan for delays as work continues to widen northbound Deerfoot Trail and improve the off-ramps at 64 Avenue NE.

A new public charter school hub will drive innovation in Alberta’s school system, support creativity, lead research initiatives and partner with post- secondary institutions.

Funding of $2.1 million will freshen up housing and shelter spaces provided to individuals and families in need. 

Alberta’s new Emissions Reduction and Energy Development (ERED) Plan charts Alberta’s course for cutting emissions, attracting investment and growing the economy. 

Alberta’s government is investing new funding in Lethbridge schools to ensure students have the space they need to succeed close to home.

Alberta’s government is providing $179.5 million in grants to support 122 road, bridge, community airport and water projects, which will grow the economy and create hundreds of jobs.

Alberta’s government is partnering with the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) to help address the addiction crisis by connecting more people to much-needed supports.

Alberta’s government is expanding services and surgical capacity at the Chinook Regional Hospital to improve health care capacity for Lethbridge and area residents.

Alberta’s government is taking additional action to expand capacity for patients waiting for medical imaging so Albertans can get the care they need when they need it.

Alberta’s government will ensure Indigenous communities and municipalities have the support they need to study what kind of police service best meets their local needs.

Alberta’s government is supporting at-risk seniors with $7.4 million over three years to reduce elder abuse and increase prevention supports.

Alberta’s government is extending the use of blue lights to improve highway safety for roadside workers and drivers. 

Alberta’s government is making it easier for certified professionals from across Canada to work in Alberta and join the booming economy.

Alberta’s government is strengthening career education programming based on recommendations from the Career Education Task Force. 

Budget 2023 increases support for Indigenous job creators and entrepreneurs by boosting funding to the Aboriginal Business Investment Fund (ABIF) by 50 per cent. 

Alberta’s government is taking steps to expand possibilities for more affordable housing in the Bow Valley. 

Premier Danielle Smith issued this statement to commemorate Yom HaShoah:

Alberta is continuing to support Ukrainian evacuees by making it easier to exchange their Ukrainian driver’s licence for an Alberta Class 5 licence.

Alberta’s government is partnering with the Calgary Police Service (CPS) to help connect people struggling with addiction and mental health to much-needed supports.

Work is underway at the legislature grounds to restore the existing pools and install a new water feature. 

Premier Danielle Smith has created the Premier’s Council on Multiculturalism, a council aimed at promoting multiculturalism in Alberta.

Budget 2023 includes $8 million for the twinning of Highway 19 to improve safety and support the transportation of heavy industrial goods to northwest Alberta.

Premier Danielle Smith issued this statement to recognize the celebration of Vaisakhi:

Alberta’s government is removing mandatory entry level training (MELT) for Class 2 licensees to help alleviate bus driver shortages while maintaining safety on Alberta roads.

Alberta's government is investing $193 million to create nearly 8,000 new seats in high-demand post-secondary programs across the province.

Métis Cree artist Sharon Rose Kootenay has been selected as the fourth Artist in Residence and Arts Ambassador to promote the value of the arts in Alberta.

Alberta’s screen-based sector has momentum, and Alberta's government is helping to make the province a magnet for the job-creating film and television industry.

Budget 2023 invests $9 million into a new reconciliation grant program for Indigenous communities and $15 million into building a safer province for Indigenous women.

Environment and Protected Areas has laid charges against 1686301 Alberta Ltd. for not following environmental legislation.

Alberta’s government is investing $5 million to diversify the aviation industry and help position the province as Canada’s aviation hub. 

Alberta’s government is working with the Alberta Council of Imams and the Al Rashid Mosque to explore opportunities for Islamic compliant, or halal, financing.

Alberta’s government is investing $3 million over three years to begin planning an expansion for the Strathcona Community Hospital in Sherwood Park. 

Budget 2023 will provide Lethbridge residents with better access to cardiac care, including a new catheterization lab.

Alberta’s government is supporting renovations at Jack James High School with $3 million to enhance a specialized program for expecting and parenting teens and their children.

Joint statement from Manitoba Premier Heather Stefanson, Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith:

Budget 2023 invests $9 million over three years to support and expand the University of Calgary’s School of Public Policy. 

Alberta’s government has provided $10 million to help food banks and food security organizations feed families and individuals in need.

The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) has completed its investigation into an incident and released the assistant executive director’s full report.

Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba have signed an agreement to collaborate on joint economic corridor projects to boost trade and economic growth.

Premier Danielle Smith’s office issued the following statement:

Premier Danielle Smith issued this statement wishing Albertans a happy Easter:

A new provincial report shows Alberta is on track to meet and exceed its methane emissions reduction goal. 

The Town of Stony Plain has landed what could be called a sweet deal, thanks in part to a $2.14-million grant from Alberta’s Investment and Growth Fund.

Increased presumptive cancer coverage will ensure Alberta leads Canadian provinces in supporting the men and women who fight fires in the province.

Alberta’s government is providing $4.2 million in additional funding to support victims of sexual violence.

Alberta’s government is building capacity in the publicly funded health care system to support thousands more surgeries and reduce wait times across the province.

Advanced Education is investing $2 million annually over the next five years to support the Queen Elizabeth Scholars program.

Minister of Jobs, Economy and Northern Development Brian Jean issued the following statement about the March 2023 Labour Force Survey from Statistics Canada:

Orders Approved – April 5, 2023

The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) has completed its investigations into two separate incidents and released the assistant executive director’s full reports on them.

A new regulation restricting municipalities and police from entering into unilateral agreements with the federal government has been created under the Alberta Firearms Act.

Albertans will save time and money on legal costs due to an increased civil claims limit.

Alberta’s government is investing in more support for communities and non-profit organizations as they care for individuals and families in need. 

Alberta’s government is investing $5.3 million over three years to expand eating disorder treatment for youth and young adults in Calgary.

Premier Danielle Smith issued this statement as Passover begins:

Pharmacies in hospitals, cancer centres and other health facilities will be upgraded to improve the safety of patients and staff.

Alberta’s government is taking action to restore order and improve public safety in response to increasing crime and disorder in the province’s big cities.

Alberta’s government is supporting a diversified tourism industry that will create jobs and economic growth across the province.

Orders Approved – March 31, 2023

The Alberta government has recognized 11 organizations and individuals with Alberta Community Justice Awards for their work improving safety in their communities.

Albertans can now look forward to a fairer, faster and more accessible court system, as the Alberta Court of Justice is receiving more than $137 million in Budget 2023.

Budget 2023 invests more than $21 million over three years for funding to support student leaders and Alberta post-secondary research initiatives.

Minister of Jobs, Economy and Northern Development Brian Jean issued the following statement on the release of the Edmonton Metro Region Economic Recovery (EMRER) Working Group final report:

Changes to the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) will make it easier for in-demand workers and entrepreneurs to become permanent residents.

The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) has completed its investigations into two separate incidents and released the assistant executive director’s full reports on them.

Record investments will build a stronger, more flexible and innovative system for emergency medical services (EMS) with better access to care and shorter wait times. 

Alberta’s government is making changes to the Graduated Driver’s Licensing (GDL) program, which will benefit eligible young drivers aged 18 and over.

President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance Travis Toews issued the following statement on the federal carbon tax increase taking effect April 1:

Minister of Culture Jason Luan issued the following statement on Transgender Day of Visibility:

Minister of Technology and Innovation Nate Glubish issued the following statement on the Rogers-Shaw merger: 

Alberta’s government is honouring some of the province’s top amateur athletes, teams, coaches and officials with 2022 Sport Recognition Awards.

Alberta will keep subsidizing accommodation charges for Albertans living in continuing care by paying for the first three months of this year’s increase.

Alberta’s government is providing affordability relief payments to 25,000 additional Albertans living with a disability.

Six inspiring Albertans are being honoured with the Stars of Alberta Volunteer Award.

Alberta’s government is investing in a new high school in Raymond, helping to create local jobs, and ensuring students have the new school they need to succeed.

Alberta’s government is investing in a new interchange to accommodate the growing economic activity along the Queen Elizabeth II Highway in Rocky View County.

Alberta’s government is providing an additional $4.32 million to help Ukrainian evacuees find temporary living spaces upon arrival.

Orders Approved – March 30, 2023.

Energy Minister Pete Guthrie issued the following statement on Alberta’s March energy sector update:

Alberta’s government is investing in campgrounds and trails to ensure Albertans can access high-quality and low-cost recreation sites.

The Metis Settlements General Council and Alberta’s government signed a protocol agreement committing to continued partnership and support in this historic relationship.

Orders Approved – March 29, 2023.

Budget 2023 expands rural health supports so Albertans can have additional access to modern health facilities and the care they need where and when they need it.

Premier Danielle Smith issued the following statement:

For the first time in more than 20 years, Alberta is increasing the income threshold for family mediation services to help more Albertans resolve family disputes. 

President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance Travis Toews issued the following statement on the federal government’s 2023-24 budget:

Edmontonians are one step closer to increased access to vital health care at the Gene Zwozdesky Centre at Norwood.

On March 12, the Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) was directed to investigate an officer-involved shooting in Red Deer.

The new Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership will support the continued growth and prosperity of Alberta’s agriculture sector.

Budget 2023 will increase public safety throughout the province with $27 million to hire more Alberta Sheriffs and by providing new tools to fight rural crime.

Alberta’s government is strengthening the province’s position as a leader in artificial intelligence (AI) and growing the technology and innovation talent pool.

The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) has completed its investigations into three separate incidents and released full reports on them.

Alberta is partnering with two long-standing organizations to support opportunities for youth in the skilled trades and technology industries.

Alberta’s government is exploring expanding an economic corridor in east-central Alberta.

Minister of Health Jason Copping issued the following statement on chartered surgical facilities: 

Alberta’s government is supporting the province’s local agriculture and food sector by helping producers and processors market their products.

Budget 2023 invests $3 million over three years to advance the planning for a new, stand-alone Stollery Children’s Hospital.

Premier Danielle Smith sent the following letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, requesting he focus on Canada’s unique relationship with the United States and highlight the need for North American energy security when he meets with American President Joe Biden:

Alberta’s government is committed to ensuring francophone students have the resources, spaces and opportunities they need to grow and succeed.

Orders Approved – March 22, 2023

President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance Travis Toews and Minister of Jobs, Economy and Northern Development Brian Jean issued the following statement on Alberta’s population growth in the fourth quarter of 2022-2023:

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Farmers’ Advocate Office. 

The Government of Alberta has approved the University of Alberta to set up a new Innovation Fund that will invest in Alberta-led startups.

Alberta’s government is increasing subsidies, tax breaks and benefits so that more children can find their forever homes. 

Budget 2023 is securing Alberta’s future by providing more than 410 more affordable housing units for Albertans in need. 

Premier Danielle Smith issued this statement as Ramadan begins: 

Alberta’s government is strengthening the work of regional economic development alliances to support economic growth and prosperity throughout the province.

President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance Travis Toews and Minister of Affordability and Utilities Matt Jones issued the following statement on the February 2023 consumer price index:

Minister of Trade, Immigration and Multiculturalism Rajan Sawhney issued the following statement on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination:

Alberta’s government continues to provide Ukrainian newcomers with settlement supports as recommended by the Premier’s Advisory Task Force on Ukraine.

Minister of Justice Tyler Shandro issued the following statement on the Supreme Court of Canada hearing an appeal of the Alberta Court of Appeal decision on the federal Impact Assessment Act:

Budget 2023 is investing $2 billion over three years in municipal funding, which includes a change to make municipalities full partners.

Alberta families can soon purchase children’s liquid pain and fever medication from their local pharmacies.

Alberta’s government is increasing funding over the next three years to address complexities in the classroom.  

Alberta’s commitment to rural sexual assault support will include training for rural health-care providers to better support survivors of sexual assault.

Alberta’s government is issuing a new directive to the Alberta Energy Regulator (AER) to require oil and gas companies to pay taxes owed to municipalities. 

Minister of Jobs, Economy and Northern Development Brian Jean issued the following statement on the public release of the Minimum Wage Expert Panel report:

Alberta’s government is investing $9.5 million into grant programs to help combat racism and promote multiculturalism.

Budget 2023 commits $23.8 million to meet newcomers’ needs as they settle, work and prosper in Alberta.

Budget 2023 strengthens Alberta’s justice system by making it more accessible for Albertans.

Francophone teachers and students will benefit from updated K-6 French curriculum and resources in September.

Elementary students and teachers will benefit from updated K-6 curriculums and resources in classrooms this fall.

The governments of Canada and Alberta are partnering to create a life sciences research, development and commercialization hub in Edmonton.

Budget 2023 provides ongoing funding for Indigenous people to build continuing care spaces that would provide culturally appropriate care. 

Premier Danielle Smith and Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services Mike Ellis issued the following statement following the death of two Edmonton police officers:

Alberta’s government has released a third-party inspection report and delivered binding directives that Chestermere city council and administration must follow.

Alberta’s government is providing nearly $500,000 to support youth living with Autism Spectrum Disorder with access to on-the-job-training and work experience.

Through Budget 2023, Alberta’s government is investing an additional $28 million to support and empower youth and young adults to successfully transition out of government care and build careers.

Orders Approved – March 14, 2023

On Feb. 12, the Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) was directed to investigate an officer-involved shooting in Wheatland County.

Budget 2023 is investing $30 million to expand the Red Deer Regional Airport, clearing the way to develop a national transportation logistics hub in central Alberta.

On March 14, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas Sonya Savage had a bilateral meeting with Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada Steven Guilbeault to discuss the incident at Imperial Oil’s Kearl site.

Alberta’s government is improving access to justice in Red Deer by appointing Matthew Park as a Court of King’s Bench applications judge for that city.

Alberta is building trust between police and communities by mandating body-worn cameras for all police services in the province

Alberta’s government is investing in transportation so more students can take the bus, rural students have shorter rides and families save money.

Order Approved – March 13, 2023.

Budget 2023 will invest almost $200 million to expand post-secondary health care programs to train more than 3,400 additional health care professionals.

A second Alberta is Calling campaign is launching to attract more skilled workers from across Ontario and Atlantic Canada.