Despite the detailed analysis conducted in accordance with the federal government’s Impact Assessment Act, the decision appears to be a purely political one. It is a decision in which the minister ignores the Impact Assessment Agency’s expert advice that concluded the project did not trigger a federal review. It is a decision that mocks the ability and legal rights of Alberta, or any other province in the same situation, to effectively manage and regulate their own natural resource development. It is a decision that sends investors running because the regulatory process is politicized at the discretion of the minister.
In reality, coal mines, and any resource development project in Canada for that matter, are subject to some of the strictest regulations anywhere in the world. The notion that Alberta’s Eastern Slopes are now wide open for coal mining by anyone with money or a shovel is absurd. There are environmental approval processes, land-use policies, integrated resource plans, Aboriginal consultation requirements, full reclamation bonding with end-use plans and dozens of other processes and considerations in place before a company can even think about starting construction of a mine.
It is also critical to understand the socioeconomic contributions of coal mining. A coal mine provides hundreds of direct jobs in rural communities, often where they are needed most. Vista Mine has over 300 full-time employees, many of whom are First Nations and women. The underground mine project, which is located within the currently permitted Phase 1 area, and Phase II Expansion would add an additional 370 full-time jobs and bring the total infrastructure investment to over $1.1 billion, of which nearly 70 per cent is spent with Canadian companies. This investment, in addition to the $200 million in annual expenditures to Vista’s partners and the hundreds of indirect jobs down the supply chain with equipment manufacturers, rail and export terminals cannot be overlooked, especially as we band together to boost our economy in the face of the damage done by COVID-19.
As someone who has split their career between coal mining and public office, I know that we have the ability to responsibly develop our coal resources while protecting the environment and providing thousands of direct and indirect jobs across our great country. I certainly hope that Canadians add their voice to the government of Canada’s upcoming Strategic Assessment of Thermal Coal Mining this fall and ensure the continuation of this critical industry.
Robin Campbell is president of the Coal Association of Canada.
New Brunswick voters have elected a Liberal majority government, tossing out the incumbent Progressive Conservatives after six years in power and handing the reins to the first woman ever to lead the province. Liberal Leader Susan Holt spent much of the campaign rolling out proposed fixes for a health-care system racked by a doctor shortage, overcrowded emergency rooms and long wait-times. She promised to open 30 community health clinics across the province by 2028. (Oct. 22, 2024)
Susan Holt has made history in New Brunswick by becoming the first woman to serve as the leader of the province’s Liberal Party, a significant milestone in the province’s political landscape. Holt’s leadership victory signals a new era of representation, gender equality, and change in the region, which has long been dominated by male politicians.
Holt’s journey to the top has been one of perseverance and dedication. Before entering politics, she built a distinguished career in the private sector, where she held numerous leadership positions. Her experience in business development and public policy has equipped her with the skills needed to navigate the complex world of politics.
In a province where women have historically been underrepresented in politics, Holt’s election represents a watershed moment. Women’s involvement in leadership roles has been steadily increasing nationwide, but New Brunswick, like many parts of Canada, has seen slower progress in achieving gender parity. Holt’s rise to the top of the Liberal Party not only shatters a glass ceiling but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of women aiming for political leadership.
As the leader of the New Brunswick Liberal Party, Holt has laid out a vision of inclusivity and progress. Her policies focus on economic development, healthcare reform, environmental sustainability, and addressing social issues that have plagued the province. She has also emphasized the importance of transparent governance and creating opportunities for underrepresented communities, making her platform both modern and forward-thinking.
Holt’s leadership arrives at a time when many voters are calling for change, especially in the face of challenges like economic uncertainty and the need for healthcare improvements. She aims to bring fresh ideas to tackle these issues while ensuring that all citizens, regardless of their background, have a voice in government decisions.
Susan Holt joins the ranks of other trailblazing women across Canada who have led provincial parties and governments. Women like former Alberta Premier Rachel Notley and Ontario’s Kathleen Wynne have paved the way, and now Holt is contributing to this growing legacy of female political leadership in Canada.
Her achievement highlights not only the growing number of women entering politics but also the demand for leaders who can bring diverse perspectives to the table. In a field often dominated by entrenched traditions, Holt’s election is a step toward a more inclusive and representative political landscape in New Brunswick.
Holt’s leadership signals a broader shift in Canadian politics, where more women and diverse voices are gaining prominence. For young women across the country, her rise serves as a powerful reminder that leadership roles are within reach, even in traditionally male-dominated spheres.
With her election, Susan Holt has proven that perseverance, skill, and a vision for change can break even the toughest barriers. Her leadership will not only reshape New Brunswick’s political future but also inspire others across Canada to pursue leadership positions and continue to challenge the status quo.
NDP Leader Carla Beck has two planned campaign events today, starting the day with an availability in Moose Jaw and then later this evening attending an event in the capital with the Regina Medical Staff Association.
Saskatchewan Party Leader Scott Moe, meanwhile, will speak in Prince Albert at the start of Voting Week in the province.
Saskatchewan residents can vote for five days starting today in the lead-up to next week’s provincial election, although polls won’t be open Sunday.
The NDP and the Saskatchewan Party are urging voters to cast their ballots early.
Voters can find their polling stations on their information cards or by visiting the Elections Saskatchewan website.
Chief electoral officer Michael Boda says there are about 810,000 registered voters in Saskatchewan.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 22, 2024.
