Alison Redford returns to Alberta legislature

Is it any wonder why Canadians are so cynical about politics and hold their politicians in such a low regard?

Former Alberta premier Alison Redford graced the legislature with her presence, on Monday, after being away for six weeks — or 12 sitting days — following her resignation as Progressive Conservative party leader.

If you — the Alberta taxpayers — were expecting an explanation of why she was away or an apology for collecting taxpayer dollars while being AWOL,you're sure to be disappointed.

"Took Easter break with my daughter and my husband — first time in four years — and we went to Palm Springs, which I know everyone knows about," she said, according to the Canadian Press.

"It was good for us to do that. We needed to do that.

"I think I did take three or four days personal time, which I marked as personal time on the form to let the Speaker know that I would be away, and that was the time I spent with my family. I've also spent a great deal of time in my constituency on government work and constituency work, and I've reflected that on the forms I've submitted to the Speaker as well."

Redford had been under fire for weeks for going AWOL since her resignation. Last week, stories — and pictures — emerged of Redford vacationing in Palm Springs.

[ Related: Former Alberta premier Alison Redford surfaces in Palm Springs during legislature absence ]

Her staff did invoke a protocol that would allow her to continue collecting her $134,000 salary while being away from the legislature. They told the Speaker that Redford could not attend official proceedings due to illness or injury, bereavement, or public or official business outside the legislature.

But, on Monday, Redford didn't disclose the reason.

Instead, she gave short and evasive answers to reporter questions about her absence, about her past expense 'scandals' and about her time as premier.

Taxpayers deserve more — taxpayers deserve accountability.

But, like in so many instances, we didn't get that with Redford. Instead, the public was presented with an air of arrogance and entitlement that we've been forced to come accustomed to in Canada.

Meanwhile, Canadians' cynicism and distrust towards all politicians continues to grow.

Twitter reaction to Redford's return:

(Photo courtesy The Canadian Press)

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