Premier Danielle Smith and her Alberta Next team visited Edmonton on Wednesday for their second town hall meeting this summer. The Canadian Press
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith had a warm welcome at her first town hall in Red Deer. But the next day in Edmonton, she faced a crowd that was louder and more frustrated. Around 500 people came to share their views on the future of Alberta.
Roberta Stasyk from Fort Saskatchewan spoke up, saying, "We sound like bratty children." Many attendees voiced frustration over Smith's plans and ideas.
Key Issues Raised
Smith’s panel met to discuss concerns after Mark Carney’s election win. Some people want Alberta to break away from Canada. At the Edmonton event, many raised questions about making a provincial police force, changing the constitution, and controlling immigration more tightly.
One of the hottest topics was a new provincial pension plan. Many people opposed it strongly.
Stasyk called the pension plan a “horrible idea.” Others doubted the government’s promises about the plan’s benefits.
Hans Smit, a professor from the University of Calgary, warned, “A smaller jurisdiction would be more vulnerable to market ups and downs.” He also wanted the panel to promise the pension wouldn’t be used for political goals.
Another man, Todd, said he just wants a safe pension. But he doesn’t trust Smith’s government to handle it well. He said, “I can stick with the Canadian Pension Plan, which works, or gamble with you idiots.”
Divided Opinions on Police Force
The idea of a provincial police force also split opinions. Many spoke against it, but most people raised their hands in favor.
Brian, a supporter, said, “We need a police force that lives and works with our communities.”
The crowd often cheered or booed loudly to show their views.
Calls for Alberta’s Independence
Some speakers used the town hall to push for Alberta’s separation from Canada. Cathy said, “Alberta’s grievances with Ottawa predate our becoming a province.”
She added, “Let’s move forward with a referendum on independence and open up constitutional talks.”
Outside, protesters held up an “Alberta Sovereignty Now” banner. One protester wore a large papier-mâché head resembling Smith.
Premier Defends Immigration Proposal
Inside the hall, Smith defended her ideas. A proposal to control immigration sparked questions. A speaker asked why the premier was “punching down on immigrants.”
Smith responded, “We just want a solution to high housing costs and pressure on social programs.”
She said, “Newcomers need to fit into the economy and support themselves.”
Panel member Sumita Anand also asked for support. She said, “We only want reasonable checks to build a better future for our children.”
Opposition and Critics Speak Out
Jennifer Long, an anthropology professor, challenged the panel. She asked, “If affordable housing is a concern, why not make landlords rent out empty homes?”
Opposition leader Naheed Nenshi called the panel a “sham” and said it used unreliable data to support government plans.
What’s Next?
Smith’s panel will return to Edmonton next month for the third town hall. They will also visit Fort McMurray and Lloydminster in August.
