Alison Redford’s run as premier has come to an end — and it was a hot topic on the table at the Cochrane Seniors Spring Open House.
Ron Casey, MLA for Banff-Cochrane, was the special guest for the first annual event, which ran March 21 at Seniors on the Bow. Casey called Redford’s resignation a “real loss for Alberta.”
But he added the province has to rebound quickly.
“Right now, we need someone amazingly capable at the helm,” said Casey. “We need to have a leader with some of the same views and skills. Whoever takes (Redford’s) place has to move Alberta forward.”
Redford’s resignation became official March 23. At that time, Dave Hancock was sworn in as Alberta’s 15th premier. Until then, Hancock was the province’s deputy minister, as well as the minister of innovation and advanced education.
“It was a personal decision for her to resign and, truthfully, it was the right thing for the province,” commented Casey.
But he was quick to sing Redford’s praises, saying she had a good vision of the direction the provincial government should head.
“She’s jumped the province forward, building bridges between Alberta and the rest of Canada, and the world,” he said. “This hasn’t always been a strong mandate of the government.”
During the open house, Casey addressed questions regarding the province’s future plans and whether current projects will stay on track.
“We have a good budget, a good caucus and good policies — but there’s no question focus needs to be put on smaller items, work needs to be done,” said Casey.
“At this point, the best thing is for Albertans to pay attention and get involved.”
Hancock will lead the province until the Progressive Conservative party elects a new leader. The first leadership vote has been announced for Sept. 6.
