At a Glance - Week of May 29
Western Premiers' Conference Concludes
The annual Western Premiers’ Conference concluded this week in Kananaskis, where discussions on trade, economic growth and energy security were largely overshadowed by Alberta’s decision to include a separation question on October’s referendum ballot.
Premier Danielle Smith called for a “spirit of collaboration” among western leaders, but several premiers pushed back against the timing and message of the referendum. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew urged Alberta to pause the debate, arguing that western provinces should instead focus on advancing major projects. The tension highlighted a broader divide between Alberta’s push to assert greater autonomy and other provinces’ desire to maintain a united front on shared economic priorities.
Jason Stephan Resigns Parliamentary Secretary Role
UCP MLA Jason Stephan quietly resigned in April from his role as Premier Danielle Smith’s parliamentary secretary for constitutional affairs after publicly supporting a separatist petition campaign. Stephan drew criticism in March after writing an opinion piece encouraging Albertans to sign the Stay Free Alberta petition seeking a referendum on provincial independence.
His comments intensified accusations from the Opposition NDP that Smith’s government was tolerating separatist sentiment within its ranks. Smith previously defended Stephan’s views as part of caucus diversity, while continuing to state her government supports a sovereign Alberta within Canada. Stephan did not provide reasons for stepping down.
New Funding to Address Organized Crime
Alberta’s government is investing nearly $8 million in one-time funding to strengthen the province’s response to organized crime, gang activity and extortion. The funding will support the Edmonton Police Service, Calgary Police Service, Alberta RCMP and Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT) with advanced investigative tools, including surveillance, intelligence and digital forensic equipment.
Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services, Mike Ellis, stated: “This targeted investment gives law enforcement the tools and resources they need to take down criminal networks. Organized crime doesn’t stop at city limits, and neither does our work. This funding ensures police forces across Alberta can stay ahead of evolving threats and respond quickly and decisively to keep families and communities safe.”
CASA House Construction Underway in Calgary
Construction has begun on a new CASA House in Calgary, a specialized mental health treatment facility for children and youth in grades 7 to 12 experiencing complex mental health challenges. Developed through a partnership between Alberta’s government and CASA Mental Health, the 20-bed facility will provide live-in and day treatment programs focused on therapy, skills-building, on-site schooling and family involvement. The facility is expected to open in late 2027.
Minister of Mental Health and Addiction, Rick Wilson, commented: “Every young person deserves the opportunity to live their best life. With this important milestone, we’re starting to see the Calgary CASA House come to life. We are committed to ensuring Albertans have access the right care, in the right place, at the right time.”