Why Will Albertans be Facing a Deficit in the Next Budget? (Part 1)

Premier Alison Redford has given Albertans to understand that there will be some belt tightening and cuts in the next Provincial budget expected later this winter. We can expect a large deficit, but no tax or royalty increases are being contemplated. Is this the only way to deal with the anticipated shortfall? How well is the provincial economy being managed by our Government? Are there other ways the economy and resources of Alberta could be managed? The speaker will explore these issues from a different perspective. He will offer a contrasting view on how the tremendous wealth of Alberta can work for all Albertans. Speaker: Brian Mason, leader of Alberta’s New Democrats Brian Mason was first elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly for Edmonton-Highlands-Norwood in a 2000 by-election. He was re-elected in the provincial general election of March 12, 2001, and was subsequently appointed House Leader of the New Democrat caucus and critic responsible for human resources, finance and agriculture. On September 18, 2004, Mr. Mason became leader of the New Democrats. Mr. Mason was elected to his third term as a Member of the Legislative Assembly for Edmonton-Highlands-Norwood on November 22, 2004, his fourth term on March 3, 2008, and his fifth term on April 23, 2012. Mr. Mason was appointed to the Special Standing Committee on Members’ Services on May 28, 2012. Before his election to the Alberta Legislature, Mr. Mason served as city of Edmonton councillor for ward 3. He was first elected in October 1989 and won three subsequent civic elections. As a member of city council for 11 years Mr. Mason gained a reputation as an effective voice for his constituents. During this time Mr. Mason chaired the non-profit Housing Board and served on the Taxi Commission, Library board and Northlands board.