Rachel Notley talks climate change at sold-out Calgary fundraiser
Alberta Premier Rachel Notley told party faithful she hopes her climate change strategy announced Sunday will change the conversation about responsible resource development.
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"Our neighbours are going to notice," she said.
Notley referred to broad support she received from the oil and gas industry and environmental leaders, in a plan that includes a carbon tax and the phasing out of coal by 2030.
"Teaming up to tackle major challenges is the Alberta way," Notley said.
Her government's plan received support from many sectors but criticism from the opposition Wildrose Party.
"This new carbon tax will make almost every single Alberta family poorer, while accelerated plans to shut down coal plants will lead to higher power prices and further jobs losses," party leader Brian Jean said in a statement Sunday.
Notley says her plan will protect Albertans health and in the long term the health of the economy through diversification.
The premier stressed Alberta values of working together, referring to the reaction to the Calgary flooding of 2013.
"These are the values the province is all about."
Organizers say the 600-seat event was sold out Thursday night with tickets at $250 each.
"I think so far we are not doing that bad," Notley said, to applause.
The event opened with moment of silence for Calgary MLA Manmeet Bhullar who passed away Monday in a car accident while trying to help a fellow motorist.
