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Immediate outrage from Alberta's official opposition greeted the introduction of the Reform of Agencies, Boards, and Commissions and Government Enterprises Act on Monday, 18 November. While the opposition NDP focused on the political aspects of the firing of Lorne Gibson- his position was abolished by the Act- careful study shows the legislation will have significant implications beyond the political party sphere. The 172 page omnibus bill, introduced by Treasury Board President and Finance Minister Travis Toews, is part of the legislation necessary to give effect to some of the 24 October budget announcements. This analysis and opinion piece is devoted to three of the most important financial institutions owned by the Alberta Crown. Before commenting on the details in Bill 22, it is im...

2019 Parkland Institute Conference Between November 15 and 17, the annual Parkland Conference is taking place at the University of Alberta. The conference examines the currents of populism evident in Canada and abroad. Keynote speakers include Professor of Philosophy (University of Toronto) Mark Kingwell and Erika Shaker of the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives. For for more information on sessions and other speakers including registration choices go to Parkland Institute.

The following is a draft of the preface for the unnamed as yet book title about a sales tax for Alberta- hopefully forthcoming in the summer of 2019. The following is a personal set of experiences related to the sales tax discussion that is not included in the forthcoming book. It’s the story of my interest, then obsession, about the rationale for Alberta adopting a sales tax.. NDP in office Then fast forward to the unexpected NDP victory on 5 May 2015.  Premier Notley’s government focused initially on steadying the listing fiscal ship by engaging David Dodge, the former Governor of the Bank of Canada.  Dodge provided a rationale for even higher infrastructure spending.  The government also deliberately sought to stabilize the public service by pledging to maintain ad...

The above image on the from carbonclick.com  Abpolecon.ca apologizes for this omission.   Originally posted 2 April 2018 Highlights: Alberta Energy Regulator and Licensee Liability Rating system Roles played Orphan Well Association and Surface Rights Board Nomenclature What are asset retirement obligations? Albertarecessionwatch.com has been examining the scope of reclamation costs faced by the Alberta oil, gas and oil sands industries, and, ultimately, the Alberta government and taxpayers.  The Redwater Resources case,  Redwater  heard by the Supreme Court on 15 February is, arguably, the first salvo in what will be a long drawn out legal affair pitting environmental "interests" (NGOs, some governments, indigenous groups) against other governments, regulators,...