| This summer has been busy with multiple ministerial visits to Grande Prairie, including the Premier, providing me an opportunity once again to showcase our city and region for what we contribute to our great province. Among the visiting ministers, some highlights include hosting a round table with Minister Schulz regarding the Child and Youth Well-Being Review, touring Shift Imaging with Minister Shandro and touring the Highway 40 twinning project with Minister Sawhney. Below you can see some pictures from these events. Minister of Justice, Kayce Madu, also visited Grande Prairie to meet with community leaders. One of his primary focuses was the potential creation of an Alberta Police Service. Rural and provincial policing is currently provided by the RCMP. The Government of Alberta is reviewing a report by PricewaterhouseCoopers Canada on the benefits of establishing a provincial police force. I do not have a definite date at this time, but have been assured by the minister that this report will be made available to the public. While no firm decision has been made, we are committed to providing the best, most professional policing for Albertans. I am also very pleased to highlight the emerging successes of Alberta’s Recovery Plan. 20,000 full-time jobs were added in July alone, and the province’s oil production is above pre-pandemic levels. We are investing in new infrastructure, agriculture, and water projects that will safeguard against droughts, increase our transportation capacity and self-sufficiency, all while creating thousands of new jobs. Lastly, we are investing in the people of Alberta. Our recovery plan includes substantial investments in health care infrastructure, continuing care, mental health supports, tax breaks, and rent relief. With September right around the corner, our schools will again be open for in-person learning. First, I want to acknowledge that the fluid nature of COVID-19 monitoring will require patience and mutual understanding as we learn to live with the virus. The health and safety of our students is always our primary concern. The Daily Health Checklist, specific health measures and isolation requirements for symptomatic and positive individuals will ensure that students and staff can attend school safely, while maximizing the student experience and promoting mental health. With close monitoring from Alberta Health Services, and data-driven decisions, I expect this school year will be closer to the old normal. As we look toward the Fall, just a reminder of some important dates for the two upcoming elections: first, the federal election has been called for September 20, and second, the municipal elections across Alberta are coming up on October 18.As always, I appreciate hearing from my constituents. Please do not hesitate to contact my office with your questions or concerns. Sincerely, Tracy L. Allard, MLA |
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| Touring Shift Imaging with Minister Shandro. This facility brings state-of-the-art imaging to Northern Alberta and they specialize in pain management, ultrasounds, and general x-rays. |
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| Touring the Highway 40 twinning project with Minister Sawhney. This project is part of Alberta’s Recovery Plan, providing many jobs to Grande Prairie residents. |
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| Round table with Minster Schulz regarding the Child and Youth Well-Being Review. Thank you to everyone who came out to share their thoughts on how the pandemic has affected our youth. |
