A Request for Ministerial Participation

One has to wonder why foreign interests get Ministerial consultation but the Minister's employers, we Albertans, are ignored. Don't they work for us?

Livingstone Range and Wild Roses. Truly, SW Alberta. Photo: Sheila Torgunrud

The following is a perfectly reasonable letter of invitation by the Chinook Watershed Crew, asking Ministers to attend a public consultation regarding our precious resource called water. The date and time to be set by the Ministers themselves at their convenience, sometime in the coming year.

By contrast, the reply from Minister Jean’s office was less than generous….AS A PUBLIC SERVANT.

The invite:

Good morning Ministers,

Recently several of us of varying political stripes met with our MLA, Chelsae Petrovic, at her office. We had many questions and concerns. She was unable to provide substantive answers to our queries.

We urged her to invite the three Ministers who are directly connected to issues with our water quality and quantity to attend here. More simply put, we're seeking assurance of protection and conservation of the primary watershed of Alberta. We need answers straight from the "horse's mouth." Minister Jean, you stated consultation would take place with the coal people. It's time for a concerted effort by the government for consultation with Albertans. We own the resource and it is incumbent on the government to protect it. You work for us.

Our Chinook Water*Shed Society has hosted two very successful forums in 2024. "Dried Up! Now What?" in April in Claresholm and "Water 2.0" in November in Nanton. Both were attended by 350+ people. Folks are thirsty for answers.

Petrovic assured us she would extend the invitation. We trust you've been invited.

We welcome all of you to gather here in Claresholm. We're a hub for the constituency, as well as home for Ms. Petrovic's office.

Your commitment to meet with us with date and time included is eagerly awaited.

Sincere regards,

Jacqueline L. Chalmers, Chair

Chinook Water*Shed Crew

The reply:

Hi Jacqueline,

Thank you for your reply. My apologies, I should have been clearer. Minister Jean will decline participation.

Best Regards,

Jennie

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I would suggest that Albertans have cause to write Minister Jean asking why, within the better part of a year, he is unable to meet with his constituents but can easily make time for the coal companies.