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Conservative power deregulation is Alberta’s disadvantage
January 23, 2012
Alberta’s NDP Opposition leader Brian Mason says the Conservatives’ power deregulation is the Alberta disadvantage for businesses and families.
“When Alberta businesses are sending workers home because they can’t afford power, it’s a sign deregulation is the Alberta disadvantage for industry,” Mason says. “Businesses want the affordable, stable power prices offered by the New Democrat plan for regulation.”
Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope shut down production for two days and send hourly wage employees home because of high power prices recently, general manager Darren Peck tells Mason. “We are completely at the mercy of power companies,” Peck says.
“With deregulation, Alberta’s Conservatives are putting power company profits ahead of jobs and business, not to mention homeowners,” Mason says. “Alberta needs an electricity system that’s focused on affordable, stable prices, not big profits for power companies. Our plan for a regulated energy market is the way to get there.”
Mason says an Alberta New Democrat government would freeze prices at an affordable rate, then make power companies publicly justify rate increases.
The Alberta New Democrat petition for electricity regulation found at ndpopposition.ab.ca/powerprices has gathered more than 600 signatures in one week.
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Brian votes no to MLA severence hikes
Four years ago, after the August long weekend and while Edmonton hosts the world track and field championships, MLAs push through their own severance package. Three months pay for every year warming a seat. Only NDPer Brian Mason votes no.
Rick Bell, Calgary Sun
July 31, 2005