Alberta Visit Highlights the Importance of Western Cooperation

This summer, I had the opportunity to spend time in Alberta connecting with government leaders, industry representatives and others focused on energy, economic growth and the future of Western Canada.

One of the highlights was a productive meeting with Alberta’s Minister of Energy and Minerals, Brian Jean. We discussed the opportunities available to both British Columbia and Alberta when our provinces work together rather than allowing unnecessary interprovincial barriers to stand in the way of economic growth.

As I said following our meeting, the impediments to greater economic prosperity between provinces are often of our own making. British Columbia must be willing to work constructively with our neighbours if we want to build a strong economy, attract investment and create lasting opportunities for future generations.

Alberta’s Minister of Energy and Minerals

Brian Jean

I also had the opportunity to connect with Alberta’s Minister of Indigenous Relations, Rajan Sawhney, and participate in broader conversations about responsible resource development, Indigenous partnerships and the role Western Canada can play in strengthening Canada’s economy.

Alberta’s Minister of Indigenous Relations

Rajan Sawhney.

The Calgary Stampede brought together political, industry and community leaders from across the country. Those conversations reinforced something I hear regularly at home in Peace River South: Canada has tremendous energy resources and expertise, but realizing their full potential requires governments to work together, remove barriers to investment and create a more competitive environment.

It was also encouraging to hear similar messages from leaders outside Western Canada, including Ontario Premier Doug Ford, about the need to strengthen Canada’s energy economy and improve cooperation between provinces.

Organizations such as Canada Powered by Women are also helping broaden the conversation about the role energy plays in affordability, jobs, economic security and the everyday lives of Canadian families.

Canada Powered by Women

As Critic for Energy and MLA for Peace River South, these discussions are particularly important to me. Our region understands the energy sector firsthand. We know the jobs it supports, the families and communities that depend on it, and the enormous potential that exists when responsible development is supported by sound policy.

My job is to make sure the experience and perspective of Peace River South are part of these conversations while also bringing useful ideas and relationships back home.

British Columbia does not operate in isolation. Our economic future is closely connected to our neighbours, and there is much to be gained when provinces work together toward shared prosperity.

I appreciated the opportunity to represent Peace River South in Alberta and look forward to continuing these conversations as we work toward a stronger energy future for British Columbia and Canada.