Mayor Bill Given was in Edmonton Monday for what he called a “historic day” as Premier Rachel Notley made her first throne speech. Given says he was expecting much of what he heard based on the NDP’s election platform, but there were some pleasant surprises.
“It was interesting the emphasis that was placed on First Nations communities. There’s a specific reference and recognition of missing and murdered Aboriginal women, which I think was very significant for the provincial government to include that in a throne speech; I certainly welcome that.”
He also appreciated that the speech mentioned the contributions each governing party has made in the past, leading him to believe the NDP see its role as a steward of the province.
Given was invited to attend on behalf of the City of Grande Prairie, and was joined by Councillor Helen Rice in her role as the President of the AUMA. He says the invite was a good opportunity to meet with new members of the government.
“This is an important time for a city, obviously, building relationships. I think across the province everybody’s considering how they are going to continue to work in this changed political environment, and I believe that the basis of that is developing relationships with all of these new MLAs from all parties, as well as with the new government.”
The bills announced include banning all corporate and union donations to political parties, and raising taxes for large corporations by two per cent.