This release was issued under a previous government.
Alberta will continue to take a leadership role in the development of a Canadian Energy Strategy that recognizes and harnesses the energy expertise and potential from all corners of Canada. In Alberta that means securing access to global markets.
“Getting our resources, especially oil and gas, to new markets means getting a much fairer price for our products. We are working aggressively to expand market access for our energy products, whether it involves expanding current pipeline capacity, developing new pipelines or moving product by rail,” said Energy Minister Ken Hughes.
An increase of $5 million is being budgeted to strengthen Alberta’s presence and grow and diversify markets in Asia and the United States.
“Our export sector is the backbone of Alberta’s economy. Expanding that sector is vital to maintaining a strong economy and a high quality of life for Albertans,” said International and Intergovernmental Relations Minister Cal Dallas. “Our work on behalf of Albertans to build powerful domestic and international relationships will allow us to break bitumen barriers, get our products to market and position Alberta as a safe place for global investment.”
Market access and industry development are also key priorities for Alberta’s agricultural producers. Priorities will continue to focus on growing the agricultural sector in the global economy, including international marketing and investment attraction, research and innovation, food safety and industry development.
“Agriculture is Alberta’s largest renewable resource industry, employing more than 73,000 Albertans and holding great economic potential for our province,” said Verlyn Olson, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development. “Budget 2013 is about investing in forward-looking programs and initiatives that will allow us to realize that potential.”
Alberta is also working to grow the tourism sector, said Dr. Richard Starke, Minister of Tourism, Parks and Recreation. “There is huge potential for tourism to diversify Alberta’s economy. We will continue to work with our partners to grow this sector by promoting Alberta as a tourism destination, increasing the breadth of experiences available to visitors, addressing challenges such as air access, and developing an integrated tourism framework.”
As Alberta’s economy grows, government will continue to ensure that production is responsible and sustainable, and that the environment is protected. “In this budget, we’re able to maintain support for land-use planning, world-class environmental monitoring, and the creation of the Alberta Energy Regulator - all part of our integrated resource management system - through efficiencies realized by merging two departments into one,” said Environment and Sustainable Resource Development Minister Diana McQueen. “We’re keeping our focus where it matters most.”
Our government was elected to keep building Alberta, to live within its means and to fight to open new markets for Alberta’s resources. We will continue to deliver the responsible change Albertans voted for.
Media inquiries may be directed to:
Mike Feenstra Mark Cooper Erin Carrier | Cathy Housdorff Andrew Fisher |
To call toll free within Alberta dial 310-0000.