Your Very Own Weekly Newsletter
The Best Newsletter in the Prairies.
Alberta's Climate Plan: Promises Unkept, Progress Stalled
The analysis suggests that Alberta has made minimal progress in implementing its plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, indicating that the plan exists mostly in name. Despite setting goals for emissions reduction and clean energy development, little action has been taken, with opposition to federal measures hindering progress. Key initiatives, such as methane emission reductions and regulations for the oilsands, have seen no visible advancement. Additionally, promised consultations and forums have not materialized, and the lack of intermediate benchmarks and uncertainty surrounding carbon-reducing measures further exacerbate the issue. This inaction not only affects Alberta's ability to meet national emission targets but also tarnishes its reputation as a forward-thinking region.
Alberta's Drought Response: Water-Sharing Deals Offer Hope Amidst Dry Conditions
Alberta's environment minister unveiled four water-sharing agreements aimed at mitigating severe drought conditions in southern Alberta. These agreements involve various stakeholders committing to voluntary water reductions, including municipalities, industries, and irrigation districts, with specific actions outlined for each scenario. While the province emphasizes the proactive and flexible nature of these agreements, critics argue for immediate implementation, highlighting the pressing need amid ongoing drought conditions.
Alberta's Bid for Power Price Stability: Renaming Default Rate and Two-Year Pricing Plans
The Alberta government is proposing measures to stabilize power prices and protect consumers from unpredictable fluctuations. Premier Danielle Smith aims to rename the default power rate to the "Rate of Last Resort" to provide clarity, with plans to set it every two years to reduce volatility. The move aims to encourage retailers to offer competitive rates and safeguard consumers unable to access alternative options. However, opposition leader Rachel Notley criticizes the plan, expressing concerns about potential price spikes and their impact on vulnerable citizens. The government also intends to require providers to inform customers about their options and resources available through the Utilities Consumer Advocate.
TC Energy Reduces Pipeline Pressure After Rupture Sparks Wildfire in Alberta
TC Energy Corp. has lowered pressure on a segment of its NGTL pipeline in Alberta following a rupture earlier in the week. The decision, made in consultation with the Canada Energy Regulator, was a precautionary measure while investigations into the cause continue. Although the rupture sparked a wildfire near Edson, it posed no threat to nearby communities and has since been extinguished. The Transportation Safety Board is probing the incident, with TC Energy keeping customers informed about any service impacts and developing a repair plan for the affected segment.
Global Negotiators Convene in Ottawa for Talks on Plastic Waste Treaty
Negotiators from 176 countries are convening in Ottawa for talks aiming to create a global treaty to eliminate plastic waste within two decades. Canada's environment minister, Steven Guilbeault, is advocating for rapid action to tackle plastic pollution, although a definitive stance on capping plastic production remains uncertain. Environmental groups stress the urgency of reducing plastic production to combat the escalating crisis, while industry representatives emphasize the importance of transitioning to a circular economy model. Despite challenges, efforts to standardize recycling processes and promote product designs conducive to recycling are underway. The treaty discussions in Ottawa will address various aspects of plastic waste management, with the aim of streamlining the draft text for further negotiations later in the year.
AI Job Disruption: Government Allocates $50 Million for Retraining
The federal government has allocated $50 million for skills retraining to address concerns about job displacement due to artificial intelligence (AI). This investment is part of a larger $2.3 billion initiative aimed at promoting AI adoption and industry growth in Canada. The retraining program targets workers in sectors potentially disrupted by AI, with a focus on creative industries initially. However, experts warn that various sectors, including banking, insurance, and energy, are vulnerable to automation. While AI adoption in Canada is still relatively low, there are concerns about its potential impact on jobs. Some argue that more than $50 million will be needed to adequately address the challenges posed by AI, suggesting additional measures such as basic income support and contributions from AI companies to mitigate the social and economic impacts of technological advancements.
Influencers in the House: How Social Media Stars are Shaping Politics
Financial content creators, such as Steph & Den, are gaining political access as influencers, invited to events like federal budget lockups. The government's move reflects a shift towards engaging millennials and Gen Z, who often rely on social media for news. Despite not being paid, these influencers are seen as crucial in reaching audiences typically disconnected from traditional media. The approach mirrors efforts in the US, where influencers are briefed on political topics. This strategy signifies a growing trend of governments embracing digital content creators to communicate with younger demographics.
Saskatchewan Man Found Guilty in Custody Dispute Over COVID-19 Vaccine
Michael Gordon Jackson, from Saskatchewan, has been found guilty of contravening a custody order after withholding his daughter to prevent her from receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. The jury's verdict, delivered after two weeks of proceedings, concluded that Jackson's actions went against the custody order, despite his undisputed motive. Crown prosecutor Zoey Kim Zeggelaar emphasized the intent behind Jackson's actions, leading to the guilty verdict. Despite the outcome, Jackson remains out of custody pending sentencing, with a date yet to be determined.
Very biased reporting. Check your reporting on Methane.