Kenney's Cuts Tracker
decisions that affect you
Albertans trusted Jason Kenney to make our lives better. Instead, he’s implemented massive job loss and vicious cuts. We didn’t vote for this.
Your life is busy, and the news cycle is fast. Kenney tries to make cuts even faster. He wants you to turn a blind eye because he thinks you can’t keep up.
That’s why we’ve created this cuts tracker. You can keep track of cuts that happen daily, or filter for issues that affect you the most, like health care and education. Together, we can spread the word and fight back.
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Start fixing shortfalls at Red Deer hospital, says Mayor
Start fixing shortfalls at Red Deer hospital, says Mayor
Red Deer has not only lost various medical specialists but even family doctors are in short supply as this city has among the longest patient waits at walk-in clinics in the province.
UCP cuts to firefighting are a form of climate denial
UCP cuts to firefighting are a form of climate denial
The Alberta UCP government is gambling the province's wildfire season will be short and mild — a gamble that puts homes, communities, industry and jobs at risk.
More patients transferred out of Red Deer for surgery
More patients transferred out of Red Deer for surgery
Red Deer doctors are warning patient care is at risk as hospital staffing shortages deepen and sick people continue to be sent out of the region for care.
Cutting on-site paramedics puts inmates in danger
Cutting on-site paramedics puts inmates in danger
“Scary and stressful.” Health workers at the Edmonton Remand Centre (ERC) say a decision to remove on-site paramedics will compromise emergency care and put inmates at risk in Canada’s largest jail.
Alberta UCP Is Showing Canada How to Destroy Education
Alberta UCP Is Showing Canada How to Destroy Education
Alberta’s premier Kenney is wreaking havoc on the province’s post-secondary education system — not just through cuts and privatizations but through a brutal reshaping of public education itself.
UCP to weaken environmental protections on public land
UCP to weaken environmental protections on public land
UCP's Bill 21 amendment that would allow the province to develop site-specific rules for recreational activities on Crown land will create a patchwork of rules and weaken environmental protections.
Albertans with diabetes losing coverage for insulin pumps
Albertans with diabetes losing coverage for insulin pumps
The UCP has cut Alberta's Insulin Pump Therapy Program so anyone who doesn't qualify for low-income status and is without private or employer insurance will have to buy coverage from Blue Cross.
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UCP bill aims to reduce private school tuition reporting
UCP bill aims to reduce private school tuition reporting
If passed, Bill 21 will make changes to 15 laws including plans to “reduce the collection of financial data that does not support the oversight of public dollars, such as tuition.”
UCP increases funding for private clinic cataract surgeries
UCP increases funding for private clinic cataract surgeries
The UCP government is funding 25 per cent more privately-run surgical facilities for cataract surgeries, this comes from a $133-million surgical privatization program announced in its recent budget.
Privatization of Alberta community lab services delayed
Privatization of Alberta community lab services delayed
The UCP plan to privatize labs has created unnecessary upheaval to the AHS system. The delay is troubling but Albertans should be more concerned about the move toward a for-profit lab system.
UCP lets insurance companies gouge Alberta drivers
UCP lets insurance companies gouge Alberta drivers
A report released by the UCP on Thursday shows that insurance companies “have been generating massive profits off Alberta drivers," since the UCP allowed an insurance rate cap to expire.
Kenney present for money talks in sham leadership campaign
Kenney present for money talks in sham leadership campaign
Witnesses say Kenney was present for discussions about funding Callaway's UCP leadership campaign, set conditions and gave Callaway a gift of Dark Horse whisky after he dropped out of the race.
Number of doctors who left Alberta nearly tripled in 2021
Number of doctors who left Alberta nearly tripled in 2021
The most important step in stopping physicians from leaving Alberta would be to negotiate a new agreement with doctors after the UCP government scrapped the previous compensation agreement in 2019.
Albertans on disability pensions struggle with rising costs
Albertans on disability pensions struggle with rising costs
A Red Deer woman spoke out against the UCP government’s de-indexing of AISH (Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped) at a press conference held in front of Red Deer City Hall by the Alberta NDP.
AB government ignored oil and gas cleanup, scientist says
AB government ignored oil and gas cleanup, scientist says
Data shows 95 per cent of oil and gas sites certified as reclaimed have never been inspected by provincial officials. A scientist who advocated for improvements says ‘the damage is permanent.’
UCP support for charters competes with public education
UCP support for charters competes with public education
Competing interests for funding between the growing charter school system and struggling public schools are on the rise after the UCP government’s increasing support for charters in recent weeks.
UCP proposes steep wage rollbacks for health-care workers
UCP proposes steep wage rollbacks for health-care workers
Directed by the UCP, Alberta Health Services is proposing up to 10 per cent in wage reductions for some health-care professionals including respiratory therapists, social workers and pharmacists.
UCP blocks NDP bill to prevent Rocky Mountains coal mining
UCP blocks NDP bill to prevent Rocky Mountains coal mining
Alberta’s UCP government has refused to move ahead with an Opposition bill, the Eastern Slopes Protection Act, that would place legally enforceable restrictions on coal mining in the Rocky Mountains.
Calgary business owner hindered by rising utility bills
Calgary business owner hindered by rising utility bills
A Calgary business owner said the rising cost of utilities is putting his restaurant at risk after making it through COVID-19 and the UCP rebate of $50 could cover the cost of buying a case of beer.
‘Exceptional tuition increases’ to hammer U of A students
‘Exceptional tuition increases’ to hammer U of A students
The UCP Advanced Education Minister Nicolaides approved increases ranging from 16 to 104 per cent. Affected programs are business, engineering, law, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and education.
UCP approves large tuition increases for several U of C programs
UCP approves large tuition increases for several U of C programs
UCP Advanced Ed Minister Nicolaides confirmed U of C BSc engineering, the medical doctor (MD) and the master of business administration (MBA) programs will have “exceptional increases" to tuition.
UCP scraps COVID-vaccinated health-care workers rule
UCP scraps COVID-vaccinated health-care workers rule
UCP Health Minister Jason Copping announced the province is scrapping the requirement for Alberta Health Services workers to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or take part in regular rapid testing.
Budget boost not enough to solve school bus driver shortage
Budget boost not enough to solve school bus driver shortage
Recognizing a province-wide shortage of school bus drivers has put school divisions in a difficult position, Ballard is urging the provincial government to increase student transportation funding.
Budget offers little relief to ongoing ambulance shortage
Budget offers little relief to ongoing ambulance shortage
“We don’t have enough resources in the Edmonton, Calgary, and Medicine Hat areas to respond to the average daily impacts that we see.”
EMS investment a good start but not enough
EMS investment a good start but not enough
"The budget doesn't even come close to what is needed to get this system just to a level that is sustainable." The money comes following a year of a record number of ambulance red alerts.
Kenney expanding private, for-profit health care in Alberta
Kenney expanding private, for-profit health care in Alberta
Premier Kenney is following through with his pre-pandemic promise to expand private services into Alberta’s health care, moving to double the number of private surgeries over the next two years.
UCP lifting almost all COVID-19 public health protections
UCP lifting almost all COVID-19 public health protections
All school requirements; capacity limits at large venues; operating restrictions on restaurants and bars; all social gathering limits; and mandatory work-from-home requirements will all be lifted.
Increase in AB education budget lags growth, rising costs
Increase in AB education budget lags growth, rising costs
The Alberta UCP government's budget pledges to increase education spending, but critics say it won't cover the ground Alberta students have lost after three years of stalled funding.
Kenney's UCP Budget 2022 Fact Check
Kenney's UCP Budget 2022 Fact Check
There is little good news in the budget for working Albertans and a lot of unknowns as to where funding is actually going especially given the UCP’s plans to privatize health care and education.
Gondek 'less than impressed' with provincial budget
Gondek 'less than impressed' with provincial budget
Jyoti Gondek said she’s “less than impressed” by municipal investment in the budget, with modest provincial funding for downtown revitalization representing one major disappointment.
Sohi says Alberta budget a 'slap in the face' for Edmonton
Sohi says Alberta budget a 'slap in the face' for Edmonton
“We asked for four basic needs that would help us to make life better for all Edmontonians, but we received next to nothing in return.”
How the UCP AB budget 2022 impacts Albertans
How the UCP AB budget 2022 impacts Albertans
There is no relief for those struggling with inflation and high costs of living. The budget doesn't address Alberta's skyrocketing electricity rates and raises costs for students, campers, and more.
How health care and education fared in UCP budget
How health care and education fared in UCP budget
While health care has been a focus during the pandemic, this budget actually reduces the COVID-19 contingency spend and increases at a rate below population and inflation growth -- amounting to a freeze.
Spike in Alberta utility bills hit hard, UCP removed cap
Spike in Alberta utility bills hit hard, UCP removed cap
For many Alberta residents, gas bills have doubled due to a commodity boom and the UCP government eliminated a legislated price cap designed to protect those who pay the floating regulated retail rate.
AB's public health care isn’t broken; it’s being dismantled
AB's public health care isn’t broken; it’s being dismantled
The UCP government is using COVID-19 as cover for funding cuts and privatization of Alberta’s public health care. They are intentionally “breaking” it to justify their agenda: further privatization.
Parents, AFL, seek injunction for student mask mandate end
Parents, AFL, seek injunction for student mask mandate end
The injunction application asks that the mask mandate remain in place in schools until March 1, and argues the sudden end of the mandate infringes on the charter rights of immunocompromised children.
UofA public health calls UCP COVID-19 plan ‘reckless’
UofA public health calls UCP COVID-19 plan ‘reckless’
Faculty members from UAlberta School of Public Health, saying it could prolong the pandemic, are voicing strong opposition to the UCP's rapid relaxation of COVID-19 health measures in the province.
Now is not the time: Drs on COVID-19 lifting restrictions
Now is not the time: Drs on COVID-19 lifting restrictions
Some doctors are urging the province not to remove measures prematurely as Premier Jason Kenney said that Albertans can expect to see an announcement this week that will scrap some restrictions.
Kenney and UCP cut health care spending during the pandemic
Kenney and UCP cut health care spending during the pandemic
Data shows Kenney and the UCP cut health care spending, on a per-person basis, in 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic, although they try to justify these cuts with sham panels and false statistics.
All Albertans stand to lose from DynaLife lab takeover
All Albertans stand to lose from DynaLife lab takeover
Instead of a modern, sustainable lab system designed for Albertans, the DynaLife deal offers false economies, menial savings, and a smaller and demoralized workforce, says Parkland researcher.
UCP sells off public community lab services to DynaLIFE labs
UCP sells off public community lab services to DynaLIFE labs
DynaLife Medical Labs is set to take over the delivery of public community lab services across Alberta starting July 1, part of the Kenney UCP government's move toward privatization.
Patients treated in hallways as paramedics go to 911 calls
Patients treated in hallways as paramedics go to 911 calls
Calgary's ambulances and hospitals are so stressed this week that patients normally cared for by paramedics were handed off to hospital staff in the hallways, so EMS crews could get back to 911 calls.
UCP defunds parent council organization to silence critics
UCP defunds parent council organization to silence critics
The UCP cut nearly $650K grant funding to the Alberta School Councils' Association (ASCA) after the organization criticized the new draft curriculum, education funding and COVID-19 school management.
AHS axes frontline health-care positions to privatize jobs
AHS axes frontline health-care positions to privatize jobs
"Alberta Health Services (AHS) is laying off 334 laundry workers at hospitals across Alberta and replacing them with a privatized service, part of the UCP plan to cut 11,000 health-care jobs."
Victims of crime benefits delayed, temp program inadequate
Victims of crime benefits delayed, temp program inadequate
Advocates and victims are waiting for the UCP government to unveil a new program to help victims of violent crimes. It was supposed to launch last year after the UCP combined and cut social programs.
UCP’s brutal funding cuts spark fear in UofL’s Music Dept
UCP’s brutal funding cuts spark fear in UofL’s Music Dept
Faculty and students in the University of Lethbridge Music Department are fearful of the impact of a “drastic restructuring” of programs brought about by the Kenney government’s brutal funding cuts.
Many Albertans feel abandoned as K-12 kids return to school
Many Albertans feel abandoned as K-12 kids return to school
Many parents concerned and frustrated about unclear instructions from the Alberta government on how it plans to contain a surge in COVID-19 infections in classrooms caused by the Omicron variant.
Remember when the UCP shut down Alberta Distance Learning?
Remember when the UCP shut down Alberta Distance Learning?
"With this pandemic disrupting education in Alberta, if only we’d had an institution that supported at home learning. We did. The UCP shut down the Alberta Distance Learning Centre in 2020."
AB spends less per post-secondary student than other provinces
AB spends less per post-secondary student than other provinces
More recent and accurate data, than in the MacKinnon report, used to justify cuts, shows Alberta spends less per student on instruction, at the university level, than comparator provinces.
Online learning inevitable with UCP’s back to school plan
Online learning inevitable with UCP’s back to school plan
Students will return to in-person learning on Monday without all shipments of rapid tests and only medical-grade masks. No HEPA filters. No N95 masks. No carbon dioxide monitors. No contact tracing.
UCP government planning to eliminate traffic court
UCP government planning to eliminate traffic court
In a UCP plan, traffic court will be eliminated, tickets will be emailed and disputing fines could cost $150. Critics say new plan demolishes due process and deters citizens from fighting unfair fines
UCP cuts isolation requirement to five days
UCP cuts isolation requirement to five days
The UCP is shortening the isolation period to 5 days for some individuals who test positive for COVID-19 and a loophole will allow workers to return to their jobs even if they are still infectious.
UCP host large Christmas party despite gathering restrictions
UCP host large Christmas party despite gathering restrictions
The UCP hosted a large Christmas party at restaurant hours after Kenney called on Albertans to limit gatherings in response to Omicron variant.
The Kenney UCP government’s damage to Alberta in 2021
The Kenney UCP government’s damage to Alberta in 2021
In 2021, Alberta had the deadliest COVID-19 fourth wave in Canada and Kenney and the UCP went on vacations. They continued to put their personal, political and ideological interests ahead of Albertan’s lives.
Kenney relaxes gathering restrictions for unvaxxed
Kenney relaxes gathering restrictions for unvaxxed
The Kenney UCP government relaxes restrictions including no longer placing gathering restrictions on people who are not vaccinated against COVID-19 as the Omicron variant continues to spread.
Lack of beds leads to patient transfers out of Red Deer
Lack of beds leads to patient transfers out of Red Deer
Fourteen Red Deer surgery patients were transferred to other cities' hospitals on the weekend. Staffing shortages and lack of beds continue to impact Alberta communities, pushing some to private care.
Alberta ran out of ambulances 31 times last weekend
Alberta ran out of ambulances 31 times last weekend
Last weekend, there were at least 31 "code reds" in Alberta — when no ambulance was available to respond when someone called for help, according to the Health Sciences Association of Alberta.
Albertans should be taking notice of Bill 81
Albertans should be taking notice of Bill 81
Bill 81 revealed dissent inside the UCP, displayed divisions within Alberta's conservative movement and exhibited Kenney's tendency to invoke a top-down dictatorial style of leadership to win the day.
Alberta loses 4,000 full-time jobs, gains $20,000 part-time
Alberta loses 4,000 full-time jobs, gains $20,000 part-time
Alberta has the highest unemployment rate outside of Atlantic Canada, and it hasn’t decreased despite there being more people working.
Calgary schools hire up to 200 temp teachers to replace cuts
Calgary schools hire up to 200 temp teachers to replace cuts
Critics say the 16-week positions aren't nearly enough to replace the estimated 1,000 teachers and educational assistants that were lost during pandemic UCP cutbacks.
Alberta's cuts to post-secondary education based on bad data
Alberta's cuts to post-secondary education based on bad data
This data is more recent — and likely more accurate — than those in the MacKinnon report which continue to be used to justify government policy.
Why is the UCP Government Making Workplaces Less Safe?
Why is the UCP Government Making Workplaces Less Safe?
Today, UCP changes to the OHS Act were proclaimed and OHS Code changes came into effect. These changes reduce the effectiveness of health and safety committees and weaken workers’ right to refuse.
Alberta lost 70,000 salaried workers since UCP were elected
Alberta lost 70,000 salaried workers since UCP were elected
Alberta actually had the worst performance over the last 3 years of all the provinces, seeing a 3.06 per cent decrease, compared to the average of 0.77 per cent of all provinces.
Alberta's new election bill silences UCP critics
Alberta's new election bill silences UCP critics
As Jason Kenney and the UCP circle the drain of public opinion, they’re making one last desperate attempt to stack the deck in their favour by introducing a law to silence their critics.
The UCP’s anti-democracy gag law: Bill 81 explained
The UCP’s anti-democracy gag law: Bill 81 explained
Bill 81 is an undemocratic and unconstitutional attempt to restrict the ability of civil society groups and unions to use paid advertising to criticize the UCP government.
UCP govt to cut post-secondary spending by $1.5 billion
UCP govt to cut post-secondary spending by $1.5 billion
UCP govt to cut post-secondary spending by $1.6 billion. That number increases to more than $3.5 billion if you factor in inflation and population growth.
Alberta Rockies coal mining protesters turn to UCP AGM
Alberta Rockies coal mining protesters turn to UCP AGM
Coal mining opponents held a protest outside of the UCP AGM, to show support for Rocky Mountains' environmental protections. Two provincial reports around open-pit coal development have been delayed.
UCP cuts FSCD funding by $8M, reduces caseloads in 5 regions
UCP cuts FSCD funding by $8M, reduces caseloads in 5 regions
During the 2019–2020 budget year, Alberta spent $219.61M on Family Support for Children with Disabilities program. This year, they plan to spend $211.95M. That’s a cut of nearly $8M.
AFL plans to stand up to UCP's Bill 81
AFL plans to stand up to UCP's Bill 81
Legislation aimed at banning elections advertisers with political party ties is an attempt to “silence the voice of working Albertans” the Alberta Federation of Labour (AFL) says.
About 15,000 surgeries cancelled in Alberta's fourth wave
About 15,000 surgeries cancelled in Alberta's fourth wave
About 15,000 surgeries were cancelled in Alberta’s fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic as surging infections overwhelmed the province’s health-care system late summer into the fall.
Alberta universities' students protest tuition increases
Alberta universities' students protest tuition increases
University students protested tuition increases and budget cuts in a "Student Day of Action" at the University of Calgary, Mount Royal University, MacEwan University and the University of Alberta.
Alberta’s post-secondary students to protest budget cuts
Alberta’s post-secondary students to protest budget cuts
In its 2021 budget plan, the UCP cut funding to advanced education by 1.4 per cent, which is the equivalent of $72 million, cut operating cost funding and allowed tuition increases of up to 7 per cent.
Ex staffer alleges sexual harassment, intoxication in suit
Ex staffer alleges sexual harassment, intoxication in suit
A former Alberta legislature UCP staff member is suing the premier's office, saying she suffered from a toxic workplace and was fired as retribution for speaking out about the problems she saw there.
Kenney government's approval rating drops to 20%
Kenney government's approval rating drops to 20%
Only about one in five Albertans believe the Kenney UCP government is doing a good job handling health care and COVID-19, according to a new poll by the Angus Reid Institute.
'Our services are being eroded': rural healthcare concern
'Our services are being eroded': rural healthcare concern
Alberta Health Services (AHS) recently announced laboratory and x-ray services at the Magrath Health Centre will be temporarily closed as of November 1, 2021 because of staffing issues.
HSAA union says over 135 calls with no ambulances in 50 days
HSAA union says over 135 calls with no ambulances in 50 days
The Health Sciences Association of Alberta says there have been over 135 red alerts–where there are no ambulances available when a call comes in–in the last 50 days, 61 in Calgary and 35 in Edmonton.
Poll 70% of Albertans say health care has declined under UCP
Poll 70% of Albertans say health care has declined under UCP
A majority of Albertans — 70 per cent — say the province’s health-care system has gotten worse over the last two years, and nearly half of those — 42 per cent — say it is “a lot worse.”
No evidence of wrongdoing found in 'anti-Alberta' campaigns
No evidence of wrongdoing found in 'anti-Alberta' campaigns
Alberta’s $3.5-million Allan inquiry into foreign-funded anti-energy campaigns has found no evidence of legal wrongdoing by environmental groups.
Only 158 Albertans reported COVID to multimillion-dollar app
Only 158 Albertans reported COVID to multimillion-dollar app
The UCP will spend $4.3 million on a hardly used contact tracing phone app. The UCP had insisted on a provincial app rather than using the federal app and then abandoned widespread contact tracing.
Late again, UCP tries to get a grip on COVID chaos in schools
Late again, UCP tries to get a grip on COVID chaos in schools
The Kenney government will bring back school contact tracing. The UCP ignored demands for a safe school reopening and now children from five to eleven years old make up 1/4 of reported cases.
Alberta is a COVID cautionary tale for Canada
Alberta is a COVID cautionary tale for Canada
Alberta's COVID situation is a cautionary tale for the rest of Canada on how a string of bad policy decisions, low vaccination rates and a failure to act quickly are a recipe for disaster.
UCP releases vaccination QR code without app to scan it
UCP releases vaccination QR code without app to scan it
The development of a QR code comes on the heels of the provincial government receiving criticism when it first launched its restriction exemption program card because it was too easy to edit and potentially falsify the document.
Jason Kenney’s Lethal Negligence
Jason Kenney’s Lethal Negligence
In two weeks, the Kenney government's political decisions have helped kill 192 Albertans with COVID, more than Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec, Manitoba, Ontario and the NWT combined.
Bill 1 includes hospitals, AFL joins call for ‘firebreak’
Bill 1 includes hospitals, AFL joins call for ‘firebreak’
Instead of announcing the "firebreak" doctors, AFL and others are calling for, Kenney added hospitals to Bill 1, the Critical Infrastructure Defence Act, which could impede workers' job action.
AHS pausing mental illness and addiction program referrals
AHS pausing mental illness and addiction program referrals
AHS said it needs staff to supplement a provincial system strained by COVID-19, so it’s “temporarily pausing some community referrals to the Concurrent Disorders Enhanced Services program.”
UCP finally asks Ottawa for COVID-19 health-care help
UCP finally asks Ottawa for COVID-19 health-care help
Waiting until after the federal election, the UCP government is finally asking Ottawa for help for Alberta's COVID-19 overburdened health-care system, something unions had called for last week.
Kenney implored to seek help as Alberta health care crumbles
Kenney implored to seek help as Alberta health care crumbles
With Alberta's health-care system "collapsing right in front of our eyes," four unions representing thousands of health-care workers are calling on Kenney to ask for military and Red Cross help.
UCP launches easy to forge COVID-19 vaccine record
UCP launches easy to forge COVID-19 vaccine record
The PDF format of the vaccine card has led to some concerns about forgery. Several uses took to social media with examples of altered cards to show the ease with which the documents can be changed.
Nurses forced to fight for mental health due to UCP cuts
Nurses forced to fight for mental health due to UCP cuts
Traumatized nurses are fighting to get mental health treatment amid the COVID fourth wave because the UCP rolled back WCB rules to cut nurses and other health care workers from presumptive coverage.
Kenney imposes COVID restrictions, passport amid ICU crisis
Kenney imposes COVID restrictions, passport amid ICU crisis
Declaring a state of public health emergency Wednesday evening, Premier Jason Kenney said the province could run out of intensive care beds and staff to manage COVID-19 patients within the next 10 days.
UCP government cuts funding for hazardous waste disposal
UCP government cuts funding for hazardous waste disposal
Alberta municipalities are facing larger bills for the disposal of hazardous waste after the UCP government ended subsidies and contracted operations to private waste management company SUEZ.
Alberta parents scramble as virus-warning system ends
Alberta parents scramble as virus-warning system ends
Alberta’s school boards and parents are relying on goodwill and gossip to protect students and staff from COVID now that the UCP has stopped universal contact tracing and alerts for positive cases.
Alberta Health Care System ‘On Brink of Collapse’
Alberta Health Care System ‘On Brink of Collapse’
Alberta Health Services (AHS) is putting off elective surgeries and outpatient procedures in the Calgary region for the week to focus on intensive care units, as COVID-19 hospitalizations soar.
Alberta's rising COVID-19 cases due to government inaction
Alberta's rising COVID-19 cases due to government inaction
Kenney's lifting of pandemic restrictions was not based on science and he failed to reimpose measures despite the rise of COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations through the summer, say experts.
Twelve Alberta mayors call for COVID-19 vaccine passport
Twelve Alberta mayors call for COVID-19 vaccine passport
Twelve Alberta mayors are calling for Premier Jason Kenney to bring in province-wide COVID-19 vaccine passport rules, while a member of his UCP caucus is telling him to back away from them entirely.
Some Alberta businesses call for vaccine passport
Some Alberta businesses call for vaccine passport
As a fourth wave of COVID-19 cases pushes Alberta's hospitals to the brink, many local businesses are increasingly frustrated with the UCP government's refusal to introduce a vaccine passport program.
Kenney announces $100 incentives for unvaxxed, mask mandate
Kenney announces $100 incentives for unvaxxed, mask mandate
Instead of a vaccine passport, Kenney announces Albertans who get a COVID vaccination will receive a $100 debit card. The UCP is also reinstating a mask mandate and setting last call at 10:00 p.m.
Kenney absent in fourth wave, doctors start COVID briefings
Kenney absent in fourth wave, doctors start COVID briefings
Kenney has been absent for 23 days as COVID numbers surge, providing no leadership during the health crisis. To help Albertans, a group of doctors have started regular COVID briefings.
Advocacy group creates email tool for school COVID concerns
Advocacy group creates email tool for school COVID concerns
With COVID rates and hospitalizations surging amid a fourth wave of the virus in Alberta, Support Our Students has partnered with the AFL to help families push for stronger school safety measures.
Elective orthopedic surgery halted due to doctor shortage
Elective orthopedic surgery halted due to doctor shortage
All elective orthopedic surgeries at the Royal Alexandra Hospital (RAH) in Edmonton have been suspended for three days starting Monday, due to the UCP's war with doctors creating a shortage.
UCP to remove most COVID-19 isolation, testing requirements
UCP to remove most COVID-19 isolation, testing requirements
Albertans who test positive for COVID-19 will no longer be required to enter isolation starting in less than three weeks, the province's chief medical officer of health said Wednesday.
Nursing shortage to hit Red Deer emergency department hard
Nursing shortage to hit Red Deer emergency department hard
Late last week Alberta Health Services announced the temporary closure of seven ER beds at the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre due to a staffing shortage. Forty-nine spaces remain open for patients.
UCP government seeks to privatize orthopedic surgeries
UCP government seeks to privatize orthopedic surgeries
The Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE) said the move puts more money into the pockets of private health-care providers and reduces the public health-care system “to a skeleton.”
Hospital laundry job cuts, outsourcing to begin in September
Hospital laundry job cuts, outsourcing to begin in September
AHS says 334 workers will lose their jobs as it outsources the last of its in-house laundry work. The UCP is also seeking private surgical centres for hip and knee operations to privatize further.
U of L has lost over $16M in provincial grant under UCP
U of L has lost over $16M in provincial grant under UCP
The University of Lethbridge requires $8 million more in revenue from tuition and fees this year than they received 2 years ago. Plus, they’ve already laid off over 100 faculty and staff.
St. Albert, Red Deer hospitals face bed closures
St. Albert, Red Deer hospitals face bed closures
Seven emergency department beds at Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre and nine surgery unit beds at Sturgeon Community Hospital in St. Albert have closed temporarily due to staffing shortages.
Nurses flag 14 bed closures at Grande Prairie hospital
Nurses flag 14 bed closures at Grande Prairie hospital
After Grande Prairie’s Queen Elizabeth II Hospital saw 14 bed closures, representatives from UNA and Opposition NDP called on the UCP government to address ongoing staffing shortages in the province.
Alberta towns, cities feel squeeze from UCP grants cuts
Alberta towns, cities feel squeeze from UCP grants cuts
The impact of the cuts to the Grants in Place of Taxes program adds up to $30 million a year for approximately 170 communities. The cuts were announced in the UCP government's first budget, in 2019.
University of Alberta outsourcing 60 cleaning jobs
University of Alberta outsourcing 60 cleaning jobs
The University of Alberta is laying off more than 60 custodial staff and contracting out their jobs after significant budget cuts from the UCP government.
AHS presents health care support workers with 4 per cent wage cut
AHS presents health care support workers with 4 per cent wage cut
AUPE says general support services workers were presented with a 4 per cent wage cut by Alberta Health Services (AHS) at the bargaining table. General support services staff work in cleaning, laundry, etc.
AHS closing cancer, acute care, palliative care, ER beds
AHS closing cancer, acute care, palliative care, ER beds
Two months of repeated closures in multiple communities, primarily in rural Alberta, nurses are on hand for assessments and triage. but direct patients to other communities for emergency care.
NDP raises concern about Alberta hospital bed closures
NDP raises concern about Alberta hospital bed closures
NDP MLA David Shepherd estimates about 12 communities have been affected and as many as 99 beds have been temporarily closed. AHS confirmed in an email that the number is between 112 and 117.
'We've never seen anything like this' cuts to services
'We've never seen anything like this' cuts to services
Concern over staff shortages and cuts to primary health care in Alberta continues to mount following service reductions at multiple rural and large urban hospitals across the province.
Nurse shortages lead to ER bed closures in Alberta
Nurse shortages lead to ER bed closures in Alberta
Edmonton’s medical community is concerned about a growing number of hospital bed closures across the province. More than a dozen hospitals across Alberta recently had to close ER beds.
Royal Alex, Lacombe hospitals close beds, staff shortage
Royal Alex, Lacombe hospitals close beds, staff shortage
Lacombe Hospital has closed eleven beds due to vacancies for registered and licensed practical nurses. Edmonton's Royal Alexandra Hospital has closed six ER beds due to a "short-term staffing shortage."
Alberta lost 37,000 full-time jobs in June, highest in Canada
Alberta lost 37,000 full-time jobs in June, highest in Canada
Alberta’s unemployment rate for youth between the ages of 15 and 24 spiked to 18.1 per cent in June — the highest across the country — as the province lost a total of 37,000 full-time jobs.
UCP finance minister wants to cut pay to nurses
UCP finance minister wants to cut pay to nurses
Directed by the UCP, AHS is asking for a 3 per cent pay cut as part of ongoing labour negotiations with the United Nurses of Alberta. Adding to previous rollback asks, it would reduce compensation by 5 per cent.
UCP cut health & education spending by nearly $1B last year
UCP cut health & education spending by nearly $1B last year
The largest UCP government cuts to actual spending relative to budgeted spending were to the education ministry and the health ministry, which combined lost nearly $1 billion in projected funding.
UCP cuts to U of A make for a rapidly shrinking institution
UCP cuts to U of A make for a rapidly shrinking institution
The U of A is shrinking. The UCP cut the base operating grant by 25 per cent or $170 million, leading to a massive restructuring campaign and 800 staff positions eliminated. And more cuts are planned.
Staff shortages causing rural hospital beds to close
Staff shortages causing rural hospital beds to close
The United Nurses of Alberta say staff shortages are causing bed closures in rural Alberta hospitals contrary to UCP Health Minister Shandro’s offensive comments blaming the problem on vacations.
Keystone XL is dead, and Albertans are on the hook for $1.3B
Keystone XL is dead, and Albertans are on the hook for $1.3B
The final cost to Albertans for the Keystone XL pipeline will be about $1.3 billion as the UCP government and TC Energy announced the official termination of the project Wednesday.
Lethbridge drug deaths doubled in 1st quarter of 2021
Lethbridge drug deaths doubled in 1st quarter of 2021
Lethbridge has seen a record number of drug-related deaths since the UCP government forced ARCHES to shut down its supervised consumption site last summer.
UCP payroll problem leaks into wildland firefighting efforts
UCP payroll problem leaks into wildland firefighting efforts
Alberta wildland firefighters say they are on the receiving end of mistreatment from the provincial government as payroll issues with the 1GX pay system are affecting when they are being paid.
Health experts warn against Alberta opening too soon
Health experts warn against Alberta opening too soon
Health experts say the UCP is courting a 4th wave by reopening too quickly. We need 70% of Albertans to get their second shot and priority needs to be given to most vulnerable and essential workers.
Criticism after Kenney’s ‘Sky Palace’ dinner
Criticism after Kenney’s ‘Sky Palace’ dinner
Alberta’s premier and some of his cabinet ministers were seen dining on the balcony of the so-called “Sky Palace” Tuesday night, a dinner that appears to be a violation of the COVID-19 restrictions.
UCP wrapping red tape around supervised consumption services
UCP wrapping red tape around supervised consumption services
The UCP’s new regulations for supervised drug-consumption sites, including requiring a personal health number from every patient, will increase barriers to the service and further strain hospitals.
The impact of post-secondary cuts on Lethbridge’s economy
The impact of post-secondary cuts on Lethbridge’s economy
In discussion, was the financial benefits provided to the region by the University of Lethbridge and Lethbridge College, and how funding cuts by the province in Budget 2021 have impacted the economy.
Three stage plan could see Alberta fully reopen by July, premier
Three stage plan could see Alberta fully reopen by July, premier
The UCP government has unveiled its three-stage "open for summer" plan, a strategy tied to vaccination and hospitalization numbers that could see all public-health restrictions lifted by July.
U of C contract proposal with wage rollbacks 'disgusting'
U of C contract proposal with wage rollbacks 'disgusting'
The University of Calgary is proposing a three per cent wage rollback for more than 5,000 support staff in contentious contract negotiations, in part due to UCP funding cuts.
Squeezed by UCP cuts, UCalgary propose 'massive' tuition hikes
Squeezed by UCP cuts, UCalgary propose 'massive' tuition hikes
Some domestic University of Calgary students could see tuition hikes as high as 32 per cent in fall 2022, with even steeper increases proposed for international students, due UCP funding cuts.
U of A contract proposal would reduce pay retroactively
U of A contract proposal would reduce pay retroactively
A new contract for non-academic staff at UAlberta proposes retroactive wage rollbacks and staff to repay “overpayments.” The salary cuts range from 0.3 to 25.9 per cent with 3 per cent an across-the-board.
Teen death renews calls for AHS to scrap new 911 dispatch
Teen death renews calls for AHS to scrap new 911 dispatch
After ambulance arrives too late to save teen, renewed calls urging the UCP government to leave 911 emergency dispatch in Lethbridge, instead of making it part of a consolidated provincial system.
UCP's Kananaskis fees have pros and cons, conservationists
UCP's Kananaskis fees have pros and cons, conservationists
Public frustration and confusion surrounds the UCP government's newly introduced Kananaskis Country conservation pass, especially since it exempted an area often used by off-highway vehicles (OHVs).
Hospital public laundry contract awarded to private company
Hospital public laundry contract awarded to private company
Jobs will be lost in the Medicine Hat area due to the UCP government's privatization push to close the city hospital’s in-house laundry services, as AHS announces new contract to private contractor.
Tuition is set to soar for 12 programs at the UAlberta
Tuition is set to soar for 12 programs at the UAlberta
Due to UCP cuts to post-secondary, tuition increases will range from 17 per cent to 104 per cent in some programs. Some students will face further barriers to accessing affordable education.
UCP cuts program that helps build parks and community halls
UCP cuts program that helps build parks and community halls
The UCP has cut nearly 50 per cent of the community facility enhancement program (CFEP), which provides matching grants to help build and upgrade public-use facilities to community associations.
UCP government fails to sign on to federal farm aid program
UCP government fails to sign on to federal farm aid program
The UCP government’s failure to get on board with a proposed $170-million top-up to a federal agricultural financial aid program is causing frustration among the province’s farm groups.
ATA, principal sue UCP government over pension order
ATA, principal sue UCP government over pension order
The Alberta Teachers' Association and an Edmonton school principal have filed a lawsuit against the UCP government about an order they say wrests more control of pension funds away from teachers.
UCP cuts municipalities' infrastructure funding by 25 per cent
UCP cuts municipalities' infrastructure funding by 25 per cent
The UCP government is cutting infrastructure money to municipalities by 25 per cent over the next three years. Funding will be reduced to $2.17 billion and spread out over an additional two years.
UCP to double Albertans cellphone 911 levy
UCP to double Albertans cellphone 911 levy
Under Bill 56, Albertans will be required to pay 95 cents for the monthly wireless levy starting in September, more than double the current amount of 44 cents dating back to 2014.
Post-secondary cuts a 'circuit-breaker' for Alberta economy
Post-secondary cuts a 'circuit-breaker' for Alberta economy
Post-secondary education is a vital cog in economic recovery and future prosperity of this province and the UCP cuts in Budget 2021 will be an economic circuit-breaker for Alberta’s economy.
Why Jason Kenney’s health care investment isn’t “historic”
Why Jason Kenney’s health care investment isn’t “historic”
What the UCP aren’t telling you is that while they may have increased the budget, they actually cut spending by $329 million between its first and second budgets.
U of A bears brunt of provincial budget cuts
U of A bears brunt of provincial budget cuts
University of Alberta president Bill Flanagan says that school will be facing a $60.1-million cut, almost one half of the total post-secondary slashing down by the UCP in the latest provincial budget.
Income support funding cut $66M in 2021 Alberta budget
Income support funding cut $66M in 2021 Alberta budget
The UCP is planning to cut funding for income support by $66 million, which includes a program supporting people with injuries and disabilities who can't keep or find full-time work.
UCP kills bill to add representation to AIMCo
UCP kills bill to add representation to AIMCo
NDP MLA Phillips’ Bill 208, that would have added representatives from four major Alberta pensions plans to the AIMCo board is dead after a UCP-dominated committee voted against it being debated.
Another example of UCP 'screwing this region' Ft. McMurray
Another example of UCP 'screwing this region' Ft. McMurray
Starting April 1, 2021, the UCP government will introduce a 90/10 split on cost sharing for disaster relief between the province and municipalities, private companies and Métis settlements.
UCP clears surgeries to private clinics delayed by COVID-19
UCP clears surgeries to private clinics delayed by COVID-19
The UCP government’s 2021 budget will increase capacity at private clinics to reduce backlog accumulated during the COVID-19 pandemic said Health Minister Tyler Shandro.
UCP shutting down Alberta Government Library
UCP shutting down Alberta Government Library
The Alberta Government Library is set to close in July 2021, according to a statement from Service Alberta. The library employs 12 full-time equivalent positions, with two being redeployed elsewhere.
Budget 2021: Post-secondary sees further cuts 750 job losses
Budget 2021: Post-secondary sees further cuts 750 job losses
Budget 2021 includes a 1.4 per cent decrease in funding for advanced education. Alberta’s post-secondaries are also slated to lose 750 full-time equivalent jobs in 2021-22, according to the budget.
Rural counties owed $245M in unpaid oil and gas taxes
Rural counties owed $245M in unpaid oil and gas taxes
Alberta's municipal districts and counties say oil and gas companies owe them $245 million in unpaid property taxes, a 42-per-cent increase over last year while UCP refuses to change loophole.
Labour leaders blast health officials over Olymel outbreak
Labour leaders blast health officials over Olymel outbreak
Alberta Federation of Labour president Gil McGowan said public health officials should have mandated the closure of the plant — and not left it up to Olymel management to shut its doors.
UCP connected company gets COVID testing contract
UCP connected company gets COVID testing contract
An oil company turned into a healthcare company to get ‘significant’ COVID testing contract after hiring UCP connected lobbyist whose son works in health ministry.
UCP frontline worker wage support is late and divisive
UCP frontline worker wage support is late and divisive
Due to ongoing pressure, the UCP will finally use COVID-19 federal funding for frontline workers. Kenney announced that some Alberta frontline workers will receive a one-time $1,200 payment.
The fall of Jason Kenney
The fall of Jason Kenney
A really good analysis of Kenney and his divisive, inequitable, angry and largely dysfunctional kind of government.
Critics skeptical as UCP reverses on open-pit coal mines
Critics skeptical as UCP reverses on open-pit coal mines
The UCP’s abrupt change of course follows weeks of protests from hundreds of thousands of Albertans from all walks of life. Landowner and conservation groups greeted the announcement with skepticism.
UCP retreats on 1976 coal policy but no guarantees
UCP retreats on 1976 coal policy but no guarantees
Due to Albertans' overwhelming outcry over open-pit mines, the UCP will reinstate the 1976 coal policy and promises public consultation. But it’s no guarantee there won’t be more open-pit mines.
UCP cuts carbon credit program for Alberta farmers
UCP cuts carbon credit program for Alberta farmers
The UCP government will not be renewing Alberta’s conservation cropping protocols for Alberta grain farmers to generate carbon offsets under the province’s greenhouse gas reduction strategy.
UCP not using $675M in COVID-19 federal emergency funds
UCP not using $675M in COVID-19 federal emergency funds
Alberta is sitting on more than $675 million federal emergency COVID-19 funds, for essential worker wage top-ups, job training in hard-hit sectors, long-term care supports, and more.
UCP wins legal bid to cut young adults benefits
UCP wins legal bid to cut young adults benefits
Hundreds of young adults transitioning out of the child welfare system will be cut off from their government benefits at 22 instead of 24, after Alberta's highest court upholds UCP cut with warning.
Alberta Federation of Labour calls school outbreaks alarming
Alberta Federation of Labour calls school outbreaks alarming
As two Edmonton schools move online due to outbreaks, Gil McGowan, AFL president, said it's time to consider sending all Alberta students back online, at least where COVID-19 rates are high.
Layoffs from Cenovus-Husky oilpatch merger begin
Layoffs from Cenovus-Husky oilpatch merger begin
The fallout from the merger of two oilpatch majors — Cenovus Energy and Husky Energy — is expected to land in downtown Calgary.
UCP cuts camp for adults with developmental disabilities
UCP cuts camp for adults with developmental disabilities
The UCP government has cut funding to a central Alberta camp for adults with developmental disabilities. The province had been providing roughly $628,000 in total funding through the Michener Centre.
UCP wants to sell land titles, corporate registry services
UCP wants to sell land titles, corporate registry services
The UCP government is planning to sell public profitable land titles, corporate and personal properties registries to a private company offering an 'exclusive 35-year contract' to successful bidder.
Union leader said Kenney lost his bet on Keystone XL
Union leader said Kenney lost his bet on Keystone XL
With Alberta facing a financial loss of over $1 billion, Rory Gill, president of CUPE Alberta said it’s not right to blame Biden. Gill said Alberta should look at diversifying the Alberta economy.
Unions 'livid' after UCP changes terms of public-sector pensions
Unions 'livid' after UCP changes terms of public-sector pensions
"We call it theft," said Alberta Federation of Labour (AFL) president Gil McGowan after province issues ministerial orders changing terms of public-sector pensions.
Alberta musician against coal mines in Rocky Mountains
Alberta musician against coal mines in Rocky Mountains
An Alberta musician, Corb Lund is coming out against proposed coal mines for the province's Rocky Mountains.
UCP quietly passed order that takes over pensions
UCP quietly passed order that takes over pensions
The Alberta Teachers’ Association says it is “incensed” by recent changes the United Conservative government has made which will take control away from teachers when it comes to their pensions.
Albertans won't forget Aloha-gate
Albertans won't forget Aloha-gate
Albertans will remember that at least eight UCP members and senior staffers jetted off to foreign locales while they stayed at home following emergency directives by the government those office-holders represent.
Allard resigns from cabinet post, other MLAs demoted
Allard resigns from cabinet post, other MLAs demoted
Kenney accepted the resignations of Grande Prairie MLA Tracy Allard as minister of municipal affairs and of Jamie Huckabay, his chief of staff. In a Facebook post, Kenney said he has demoted five other UCP MLAs who travelled internationally.
Tany Yao sixth MLA confirmed to have travelled amid COVID-19
Tany Yao sixth MLA confirmed to have travelled amid COVID-19
Officials said Tany Yao is the latest UCP MLA who left Canada during the holiday season amid COVID-19. Yao, who represents Fort McMurray – Wood Buffalo, is currently in Mexico and cannot be reached.
#ResignKenney trends after Alberta MLAs and staff travel
#ResignKenney trends after Alberta MLAs and staff travel
#ResignKenney was trending on Twitter, after the premier failed to lay out consequences for at least eight MLAs and staffers for Alberta’s UCP who travelled internationally amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Two more UCP MLAs returning to Alberta from trips abroad
Two more UCP MLAs returning to Alberta from trips abroad
Pat Rehn, the MLA for Lesser Slave Lake, posted on Facebook Saturday confirming he is on his way back from Mexico. Jason Stephan, MLA for Red Deer-South, is also returning from a trip to Arizona.
Kenney won't sanction Allard or others who travelled
Kenney won't sanction Allard or others who travelled
He said he wouldn't be sanctioning Allard or others in government who travelled, as they did not break the law, and he said he was not clear with staff about whether or not they should be travelling.
Alberta municipal affairs minister took Hawaii vacation
Alberta municipal affairs minister took Hawaii vacation
Municipal Affairs Minister Tracy Allard vacationed in Hawaii this month, despite direction from both federal and provincial governments to avoid non-essential travel during the COVID-19 pandemic.
UCP plans new mountaintop-removal coal mines
UCP plans new mountaintop-removal coal mines
First, the UCP rescinded a policy preventing coal companies from surface mining the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains. Then, they accepted offers from Australian coal companies to mine close to 2,000 hectares.
Government takeover of post-secondary education
Government takeover of post-secondary education
The UCP government has implemented a multi-pronged strategy to demolish university autonomy and self-governance and to assert direct political control over post-secondary education institutions.
UCP government to rewrite water use rules along Rockies
UCP government to rewrite water use rules along Rockies
The UCP is looking to change access to water from the Oldman watershed, removing barriers that will help industrial users like coal and risking drinking water for about a million people in southern Alberta.
UCP spending $20M to wean non-profits off government funding
UCP spending $20M to wean non-profits off government funding
Last week, the UCP announced the Civil Society Fund, designed to increase funding for the non-profit sector, presumably non-government funding.
Alberta ranchers take Kenney government to court
Alberta ranchers take Kenney government to court
Jason Kenney’s government quietly abolished the province’s Coal Policy last May to appease Australian coal miners, now ranchers are taking them to court over ending open-pit mining protection.
Proposed end to WCB fair practices office 'shortsighted'
Proposed end to WCB fair practices office 'shortsighted'
Bill 47, Ensuring Safety and Cutting Red Tape Act, will dissolve the Fair Practices and Medical Panels offices, which employs 54 people and helps people navigate the WCB system, by April 1, 2021.
The politics behind Jason Kenney's 'tepid' COVID-19 response
The politics behind Jason Kenney's 'tepid' COVID-19 response
Polling shows the Kenney government is paying a price for its handling of the pandemic. Alberta has the largest absolute number of COVID-19 cases in Canada, despite having the fourth largest population.
UCP guts Workers’ Compensation and work safety protections
UCP guts Workers’ Compensation and work safety protections
Jason Kenney’s UCP tabled Bill 47, an omnibus bill that will make workplaces less safe and leave workers less protected. Some of the many changes include limiting workers' right to refuse unsafe work.
New UCP bill opens door for road and bridge tolls
New UCP bill opens door for road and bridge tolls
Alberta Transportation plans to charge user fees to finance a new bridge over the Peace River. Bill 43 would allow the government to use tolls to finance new roads and bridges.
Kenney should know what he’s taking from handicapped
Kenney should know what he’s taking from handicapped
Letter from father and legal guardian of a 26-year-old severely handicapped son, who was born with cerebral palsy, shares the impact of the UCP funding cuts for services for handicapped people.
Camp for developmentally disabled loses government funding
Camp for developmentally disabled loses government funding
The UCP cruelly cuts funding to Camp L.G. Barnes, a lakeshore camp for people with developmental disabilities.
UCP government closing treatment centre for homeless men
UCP government closing treatment centre for homeless men
The UCP is shutting down the McCullough Centre, a treatment centre for homeless men dealing with addiction and mental health issues, 75 men will be without treatment and 63 employees without jobs.
UCP cutting 930 jobs in social services, agriculture, forestry
UCP cutting 930 jobs in social services, agriculture, forestry
More layoffs coming: 930 Government of Alberta jobs on the line. The cuts could impact up to 546 positions in Community and Social Services and 247 in Agriculture and Forestry, according to AUPE letter.
UCP plans to hike costs for medications for outpatients
UCP plans to hike costs for medications for outpatients
Leaked documents show the UCP plan to download health care costs and encourage Albertans to buy private health care coverage.
UCP education recommendations would set Alberta back
UCP education recommendations would set Alberta back
UCP curriculum advisors develop recommendations described as racist, regressive, unsupported by research, and "contrary to everything we know about meaningful learning."
Highlights of Kenney's attack on workers in Alberta
Highlights of Kenney's attack on workers in Alberta
A review of Bill 32 highlights how the UCP is catering to businesses at the expense of Alberta's workers.
Kenney moves to privatize health care jobs in the Okotoks area
Kenney moves to privatize health care jobs in the Okotoks area
The UCP moves ahead with privatizing health care jobs related to cleaning, food services and laundry during a pandemic. The work will still be publicaly funded but now done by for-profit companies.
UCP moves ahead with EMS consolidation, ignoring concerns from cities
UCP moves ahead with EMS consolidation, ignoring concerns from cities
MLA Tyler Shandro pushes ahead with consolidating EMS dispatch for Calgary, Red Deer, Lethbridge and Wood Buffalo despite concerns from mayors
Medicine Hat’s maternity clinic will close due to UCP cuts
Medicine Hat’s maternity clinic will close due to UCP cuts
Due to UCP cuts, Alberta Health Services is closing the clinic and informed the physicians that if the clinic was to continue that they would have to fund it.
UCP to cut 11,000 AHS health care jobs
UCP to cut 11,000 AHS health care jobs
Most of the 11,000 job UCP government cuts will come from privatization: 2,000 laboratory jobs, 4,000 housekeeping jobs, 3,000 food service jobs, and 400 laundry jobs. Plus, 800 clinical staff jobs will be lost through attrition.
Stephen Harper's son, 24, employed by Kenney as Policy Advisor
Stephen Harper's son, 24, employed by Kenney as Policy Advisor
Ben Harper, a student, was hired as a policy advisor for the Alberta premier's office, making an approximate $100,000 a year.
Lawsuit launched against UCP cuts to opioid treatment program
Lawsuit launched against UCP cuts to opioid treatment program
'It is a death sentence.' iOAT patients testified about the cuts to the life-changing impact of the program. They've launched lawsuit after UCP cut funding for the opioid treatment program.
U of A to cut 650 jobs to overcome $127-million funding gap
U of A to cut 650 jobs to overcome $127-million funding gap
The University of Alberta will eliminate 650 more jobs by 2022 due to UCP $127-million cut. This is on top of about 400 jobs already cut in the 2019-20 school year.
Swan Hills Treament Centre lays off 60% of work force
Swan Hills Treament Centre lays off 60% of work force
The hazardous waste treatment plant is owned by the Alberta government. The private company that manages the plant told its employees on Sept. 10 that they would be laying off 60% of its workforce.
UCP government plans to move ahead with de-listing 175 park sites
UCP government plans to move ahead with de-listing 175 park sites
Alberta Environment and Parks plans to move ahead with its plans to remove 175 sites from the Alberta Parks system. Conservationists say that once parks lose their protected area status they are not protected and are open to other uses, including industrial and commercial uses, which compromise conservation goals and public accessibility.
Kenney says UCP looking at 'people qualifying' for AISH
Kenney says UCP looking at 'people qualifying' for AISH
Foothills doctor leaving UCP policies behind
Foothills doctor leaving UCP policies behind
Five Sundre docs to leave Alberta amid UCP government dispute
Five Sundre docs to leave Alberta amid UCP government dispute
UCP government cuts income supports to 10,000 people
UCP government cuts income supports to 10,000 people
Calgary cuts 110 workers who service and clean city buses
Calgary cuts 110 workers who service and clean city buses
Due to funding cuts, the workers who service and clean Calgary Transit buses before they head out on routes will soon be replaced by an outside contractor.
UCP funding cut forces layoff of 160 bus attendants
UCP funding cut forces layoff of 160 bus attendants
UCP funding cuts have forced the Calgary Board of Education to cut 70% of its bus attendants' positions. Not only are people losing their jobs but their absence will put special needs students at risk.
Whatever happened to the Alberta superlab?
Whatever happened to the Alberta superlab?
The UCP cancelled the superlab, alongside the planned $50-million buyout of Dynalife and $23-million of the planned $595-million capital budget for the project had already been spent.
Rural families in Brooks face potential 466% tax increase
Rural families in Brooks face potential 466% tax increase
UCP cuts to emergency dispatch may put lives at risk
UCP cuts to emergency dispatch may put lives at risk
Red Deer families face 30% tax increase after UCP tax plan
Red Deer families face 30% tax increase after UCP tax plan
UCP considers $200M private orthopedic surgical facility
UCP considers $200M private orthopedic surgical facility
Special-needs students left behind with UCP education cuts
Special-needs students left behind with UCP education cuts
UCP cuts to pensions leave workers behind
UCP cuts to pensions leave workers behind
Workers are being left with small pensions, sometimes half the amounts they would have been, because of changes put in place by the UCP government.
UCP to privatize care for vulnerable children and adults
UCP to privatize care for vulnerable children and adults
Stettler County protests Kenney's damaging policies
Stettler County protests Kenney's damaging policies
Families of developmentally disabled fight UCP privatization
Families of developmentally disabled fight UCP privatization
“Top Six” list of the most dangerous sections of Bill 32
“Top Six” list of the most dangerous sections of Bill 32
The end of overtime, sweeping cuts to the minimum wage and authoritarian intimidation of workers and more. The Alberta Federation of Labour has released a “Top Six” list of the most dangerous sections of Bill 32, the UCP’s so-called “Restoring Balance to Alberta Workplaces Act.”
UCP cut child care subsidy program for families
UCP cut child care subsidy program for families
UCP cut of on-site dental causes unnecessary hardship
UCP cut of on-site dental causes unnecessary hardship
UCP decision to close drug site will ultimately cost lives
UCP decision to close drug site will ultimately cost lives
What you need to know about the UCP’s undemocratic, anti-worker law
What you need to know about the UCP’s undemocratic, anti-worker law
The newly introduced Bill 32, Restoring Balance in Alberta’s Workplaces Act is the UCP government’s undemocratic, anti-worker law that will enact sweeping regressive changes on Alberta workers and workplaces.
Kenney acting like Putin with latest inquiry
Kenney acting like Putin with latest inquiry
UCP scraps grants for post-secondary students with children
UCP scraps grants for post-secondary students with children
UCP omnibus bill paves way for private surgeries
UCP omnibus bill paves way for private surgeries
Sundre hospital loses 8 doctors due to UCP
Sundre hospital loses 8 doctors due to UCP
UCP announced more tax cuts for corporations
UCP announced more tax cuts for corporations
Kenney cuts funding for queer and trans at-risk youth centre
Kenney cuts funding for queer and trans at-risk youth centre
UCP cuts phone-based supervised consumption project
UCP cuts phone-based supervised consumption project
U of A pulls out of some varsity sports due to UCP cuts
U of A pulls out of some varsity sports due to UCP cuts
Varsity student athletes will no longer be participating in certain sports as a way of dealing with UCP cuts.
UCP to allow private sale of blood in Alberta
UCP to allow private sale of blood in Alberta
Red Deer College faces $5.3M funding cut, turn to job cuts
Red Deer College faces $5.3M funding cut, turn to job cuts
The UCP funding cuts force Red Deer College to continue to cut more staff.
The UCP spends $3.7 million to review post-secondary system
The UCP spends $3.7 million to review post-secondary system
The UCP spend millions to review the post-secondary system in the wake of massive funding cuts
UCP government cuts Energy Efficiency Alberta
UCP government cuts Energy Efficiency Alberta
Edmonton Public School cuts 178 teachers due to UCP budget
Edmonton Public School cuts 178 teachers due to UCP budget
UCP Budget forces cuts at Edmonton Public Schools
UCP Budget forces cuts at Edmonton Public Schools
611 full-time positions will be cut, including 429 educational assistants, from Edmonton Public Schools
Elk Island Public Schools cuts 87 jobs due to UCP funding shortfall
Elk Island Public Schools cuts 87 jobs due to UCP funding shortfall
A tough year could be ahead for the 2020-21 school year as Elk Island Public Schools passed a slashed operating budget and cut 87 jobs.
UCP wants to use victims fund for policing and prosecution
UCP wants to use victims fund for policing and prosecution
Opposition bill seeks to reverse public-sector pension changes
Opposition bill seeks to reverse public-sector pension changes
NDP MLA and labour and immigration critic Christina Gray tabled a private member's bill that seeks to halt cabinet ministers from withdrawing Alberta from the Canada Pension Plan — a proposal floated by Kenney.
UCP scrap job competition for Alberta's Health Advocate
UCP scrap job competition for Alberta's Health Advocate
Bow Valley College closes Canmore campus due to UCP cuts
Bow Valley College closes Canmore campus due to UCP cuts
The Canmore Campus of Bow Valley College joins the list of cancelled and closed programs and campus in the wake of UCP funding cuts.
Parents say UCP education cut abandons special needs kids
Parents say UCP education cut abandons special needs kids
UCP government attacks AISH application process
UCP government attacks AISH application process
UCP hires former executive director of Conservative Party
UCP hires former executive director of Conservative Party
UCP hires the former ED of the federal Conservative Party despite his role overseeing Andrew Sheer use party funds to pay for his children's private education.
UCP cuts force Medicine Hat College to cut programs and jobs
UCP cuts force Medicine Hat College to cut programs and jobs
MHC cuts 5 degree programs and 41 jobs in an attempted to deal with UCP cuts.
UCP cuts Community Initiatives Programs
UCP cuts Community Initiatives Programs
UCP canceled a grant program which funds community projects and groups such as sports associations, theatre groups, and non-profit organizations amid COVID-19.
The UCP cuts force U of A to cut programs
The UCP cuts force U of A to cut programs
The U of A will close programs in rehabilitation medicine and nursing at their Augustana campus to deal with the UCP cuts.
U of L cuts all varsity hockey after UCP cuts
U of L cuts all varsity hockey after UCP cuts
As a result of UCP budget cuts, the University of Lethbridge will end both the men and women's varsity hockey programs.
UCP forces 20,000 layoffs, Canada's biggest pink-slip binge
UCP forces 20,000 layoffs, Canada's biggest pink-slip binge
Radiologists' contracts canceled amid COVID_19
Radiologists' contracts canceled amid COVID_19
Radiologists are "bewildered and demoralized" after the Alberta government announced it would terminate contracts signed months earlier.
U of A cuts up to 1,000 jobs after UCP budget cuts
U of A cuts up to 1,000 jobs after UCP budget cuts
The Kenney government is reducing funding to the province's 26 post-secondary institutions by 20 per cent in the next three years.
UCP budget may mean fewer principals at Calgary schools
UCP budget may mean fewer principals at Calgary schools
The Calgary Catholic School District plans to test having one principal oversee two schools simultaneously as a way to deal with Kenney government cuts.
Crime prevention org may close shop due to funding cuts
Crime prevention org may close shop due to funding cuts
A provincial non-profit that researches criminal justice issues may be forced to shut its doors over budget cuts.
Inadequate funding for Edmonton Public Schools
Inadequate funding for Edmonton Public Schools
Edmonton Public School Board chair, says money allotted for the 2020-2021 school year is inadequate.
Hours, contracts cut at heritage sites & museums
Hours, contracts cut at heritage sites & museums
Kenney government cuts museum and heritage site funding
Fort McMurray childcare workers lose living allowance
Fort McMurray childcare workers lose living allowance
Without the allowance, many early childhood educators say they would be forced to quit
Alberta government to end funding for opioid therapy
Alberta government to end funding for opioid therapy
The Alberta government cuts funding for an opioid treatment program offered as a last resort to people with severe addictions.
Royal Alberta Museum forced to cut hours
Royal Alberta Museum forced to cut hours
The Royal Alberta Museum has cut back its hours in response to the recent provincial budget.
UCP government cuts Energy Efficiency Alberta
UCP government cuts Energy Efficiency Alberta
Alberta universities, colleges face UCP funding cuts
Alberta universities, colleges face UCP funding cuts
Low-income housing fund cut by UCP
Low-income housing fund cut by UCP
A $53 million cut to low-income housing maintenance is sending shockwaves through the social services community.
UCP Appoints MacKinnon to University of Alberta board
UCP Appoints MacKinnon to University of Alberta board
Janice MacKinnon, who headed the UCP Blue Ribbon Panel that recommended cutting the public service, has been seemingly rewarded with a position on the University of Alberta board.
Former head of UCP panel appointed to U of A
Former head of UCP panel appointed to U of A
Janice MacKinnon, who chaired a panel calling for deep budget cuts, has been appointed by the province as a member of the board of the Governors of the University of Alberta.
New rules would limit school board control over funds
New rules would limit school board control over funds
School boards would need permission to spend from reserves
20 parks to fully/partially close
20 parks to fully/partially close
Critics say move could lead to the provincial parks running as for-profits
Distance Learning fund cut over two years
Distance Learning fund cut over two years
Alberta Distance Learning Centre (ADLC) will be defunded and phased out by the UCP government over the next two years. The end of ADLC may cause serious inequities for rural and vulnerable students.
UCP cuts accreditation that promotes quality for child care
UCP cuts accreditation that promotes quality for child care
The UCP cuts standards for quality child care in order to reduce "red tape".
Children’s Services to scrap childcare accreditation process
Children’s Services to scrap childcare accreditation process
The Kenney government will abandon the early childhood education accreditation process that's been in place for 16 years
Parents fear cuts will segregate special needs kids
Parents fear cuts will segregate special needs kids
Parents and advocates for students with disabilities and learning delays say they fear changes to Program Unit Funding — otherwise known as PUF funding — will mean some kids are left behind.
UCP cut funding for post-secondary leading to higher tuition
UCP cut funding for post-secondary leading to higher tuition
Universities and colleges in Alberta will receive less funding, approximately 6.3 per cent. This shortfall will largely fall on students with higher tuition.
UCP cuts to U of A budget by 11%
UCP cuts to U of A budget by 11%
Major reduction in funding to the U of A for the coming year.
Financial benefit cut for victims of violent crime
Financial benefit cut for victims of violent crime
A financial program set up to assist victims of violent crime recover from physical and psychological injuries is being cut by the Kenney government
Seniors drug plan cut by $72 million
Seniors drug plan cut by $72 million
Drug benefits for seniors are being cut by $72 million this year, the 2020 budget revealed.
Kenney government accused of burying climate-change report
Kenney government accused of burying climate-change report
Report warns of profound impacts as Alberta warms faster than rest of world
Province cuts funding for firefighter training
Province cuts funding for firefighter training
The province’s elimination of a $500,000 grant for firefighter training will greatly impact services, the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association says.
Province drastically cuts funding for municipalities
Province drastically cuts funding for municipalities
UCP government delivers a range of cuts to cities and towns
UCP Child care cuts put Alberta further behind
UCP Child care cuts put Alberta further behind
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development study confirms the immense benefits of governments investing in early childhood education.
Calgarians face higher energy costs after UCP cuts cap
Calgarians face higher energy costs after UCP cuts cap
Electricity rates shoot up by about 19 per cent after brutal cold snap
UCP cuts medical imaging from some health practitioners
UCP cuts medical imaging from some health practitioners
Diagnostic imaging services like X-rays, ultrasounds, bone scans and MRIs ordered by certain practitioners will no longer be covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan.
Doctors leaving Alberta town over government cuts
Doctors leaving Alberta town over government cuts
Canmore doctors spoke out against the recent cuts announced by Health Minister Shandro, saying they seriously jeopardize the healthcare system and threaten the safety of their patients.
Alberta lawyers sound alarm over budget cuts
Alberta lawyers sound alarm over budget cuts
Alberta’s legal system is in a crisis that may become irreversible if the right steps to fix it aren't taken, a group of prominent lawyers say in an open letter to Justice Minister Doug Schweitzer.
Budget cuts cause family court project to be suspended
Budget cuts cause family court project to be suspended
The UCP cut a family court project that would eliminate duplication of resources and is forcing the province to forgo funding from the Federal government for judges.
Struggling energy industry propped up by public pensions
Struggling energy industry propped up by public pensions
Alberta's largest labour organization says worker pensions are being used to prop up the province's struggling fossil fuels industry.
UCP cuts health coverage for those travelling out of country
UCP cuts health coverage for those travelling out of country
The UCP has cut approximately $1 million annually for what they consider "non-urgent" health services and routine lab tests for Albertans travelling out of the country.
Driving more expensive under UCP
Driving more expensive under UCP
Albertans are paying more to drive their vehicles compared to a year ago, including increases in the cost of insurance, fuel, and licensing and registration fees.
Medical imaging wait times longer after UCP Cuts
Medical imaging wait times longer after UCP Cuts
After cutting funding for wait times patients are now waiting more than 375 days for an MRI at the University of Alberta Hospital. Some patients are even paying $800 for scans at private clinics.
UCP cut of $138 million to education confirmed
UCP cut of $138 million to education confirmed
The Alberta Teachers' Association, through a Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIP) confirm the UCP cut funding to education substantially.
Calgary energy company won its case against UCP government
Calgary energy company won its case against UCP government
A Calgary energy company has won its case against the Alberta government after a court ruling ordered the provincial cabinet to make a decision on whether to approve a new oil sands project.
High River short nearly $30,000 after funding cut
High River short nearly $30,000 after funding cut
The UCP downloads cuts to municipalities by not paying municipal property taxes on government buildings and expects town residents to pick up their property tax bill instead.
UCP tweet about low-income transit passes was 'tone-deaf'
UCP tweet about low-income transit passes was 'tone-deaf'
The UCP continue to make cuts and changes to programs such as AISH without considering the impact on people who depend on these programs.
UCP expect cuts from health care workers
UCP expect cuts from health care workers
Relying on two reports focused exclusively on how to cut the government budget, the UCP is hoping health care workers will accept pay cuts and bear the brunt of unnecessary health care cuts.
UCP unveils new provincial education funding formula
UCP unveils new provincial education funding formula
The UCP introduced a new funding formula that does not respond fast enough to student enrollment growth.
UCP forces cuts to education and doctors
UCP forces cuts to education and doctors
The UCP are moving ahead with cuts to education and health care while claiming services will be improved with less money.
UCP refused new deal with Alberta's doctors
UCP refused new deal with Alberta's doctors
Doctors hope to find way forward to meet province's needs and treat physicians fairly
Medicine Hat loses child development program under UCP
Medicine Hat loses child development program under UCP
A local program helping children with developmental challenges and their families is cut because of changes to government funding.
Rental Assistance Program cut by 24%
Rental Assistance Program cut by 24%
Despite over 9,000 Albertans needing help with housing the UCP has cut funding for this program.
Cuts to Lethbridge school divisions confirmed
Cuts to Lethbridge school divisions confirmed
Despite the UCP's claims that funding has been maintained, government documents show the Lethbridge school divisions were cut by just under $2 million.
Kennedy offloads crude-by-rail contracts
Kennedy offloads crude-by-rail contracts
Premier Kenney scraps crude-by-rail contracts signed by the NDP.
UCP excludes environmental groups
UCP excludes environmental groups
Three environmental groups painted as hostile to the oil and gas industry by the Alberta government say they weren't interviewed for a public inquiry into alleged foreign funding.
Young Albertans targeted with UCP cuts
Young Albertans targeted with UCP cuts
A number of the UCP cuts disproportionately affect young people including the cut to minimum wage, attacks on GSAs, cuts to education and post-secondary and increases to student loan interest rates.
Education funding cut under UCP
Education funding cut under UCP
Documents obtained through a Freedom of Information request show the UCP government imposed major cuts on Alberta school boards for the 2019/20 school year.
Kennedy threatens western alienation for oil investments
Kennedy threatens western alienation for oil investments
Kenney warned that rejection of the mine could be a "tipping point", but the company eventually pulled its application.
UCP unilaterally makes changes to AISH
UCP unilaterally makes changes to AISH
Kenney government unilaterally changed AISH payment dates, creating headaches for recipients.
Alberta Doctors push back against recommendations for cuts
Alberta Doctors push back against recommendations for cuts
Alberta doctors push back against recommendations from the AHS review recommending cutbacks and even removing government funding for dozens of surgeries
Two Calgary Catholic Schools face possible closure under UCP
Two Calgary Catholic Schools face possible closure under UCP
The Calgary Catholic School District is looking into closing two elementary schools.
UCP pushes 24,000 workers to take pay cuts
UCP pushes 24,000 workers to take pay cuts
The UCP pushes 24,000 public sector workers to take a pay cut despite an independent arbitrator ruling the UCP has no economic justification to cut pay.
UCP cuts money for transportation for medical appointments
UCP cuts money for transportation for medical appointments
People living with chronic health conditions who rely on the government for income say money for transportation to medical appointments has disappeared from their payments.
UCP cuts Airdrie Community Links by $856,122
UCP cuts Airdrie Community Links by $856,122
Airdrie Community Links is losing $856,122 in funding forcing them to cut back on programs, staff, and hours of operation.
AHS Review recommends increasing monthly fees on seniors
AHS Review recommends increasing monthly fees on seniors
The AHS review recommends increasing monthly fees charged to seniors in long-term care to "save" the government $57 million.
Drug plan benefits affecting 60,000 Albertans heartless
Drug plan benefits affecting 60,000 Albertans heartless
AHS Review recommends increasing monthly fees on seniors
AHS Review recommends increasing monthly fees on seniors
Calgary forced to cut floor mitigation after UCP cuts
Calgary forced to cut floor mitigation after UCP cuts
AHS review recommends higher costs and more privatization
AHS review recommends higher costs and more privatization
UCP MLA claims more cuts needed to AHS management
UCP MLA claims more cuts needed to AHS management
UCP changes to education sector driven by ideology
UCP changes to education sector driven by ideology
Recommended health care cuts including replacing nurses
Recommended health care cuts including replacing nurses
UCP turns to private health care to off-load costs
UCP turns to private health care to off-load costs
Cuts force government workers to respond to rural crime
Cuts force government workers to respond to rural crime
UCP cuts hit St. Albert family
UCP cuts hit St. Albert family
Arbitrator pushes back against rollbacks for public workers
Arbitrator pushes back against rollbacks for public workers
Rural Alberta missing out on unpaid taxes from oil and gas
Rural Alberta missing out on unpaid taxes from oil and gas
Services for children and families cut across Alberta
Services for children and families cut across Alberta
UCP excludes teacher representatives from education review
UCP excludes teacher representatives from education review
UCP cuts section of Alberta building code
UCP cuts section of Alberta building code
The UCP curriculum review cuts teachers from the panel
The UCP curriculum review cuts teachers from the panel
UCP sudden changes for AISH
UCP sudden changes for AISH
Service Alberta forced to make layoffs
Service Alberta forced to make layoffs
UCP cuts overall funding for film and television in Alberta
UCP cuts overall funding for film and television in Alberta
Cochrane child and family services cut by 40%
Cochrane child and family services cut by 40%