At a Glance - Week of October 8, 2025

Alberta Advances West Coast Pipeline Proposal

Alberta is taking the lead as the proponent of a proposed West Coast crude oil pipeline, forming a technical advisory group comprising industry and Indigenous participants. The province will submit a formal application under the Building Canada Act to the Federal Major Projects Office. The pipeline would increase market access for Canadian oil, especially toward Asian markets.

“This project application is about more than a pipeline; it’s about unlocking Canada’s full economic potential. By doing this the right way from Day 1 with Indigenous partners and industry expertise, we will deliver a proposal that proves this project is undeniably in the national interest. Together, we are charting a path to secure Canada’s energy future for generations while bringing the world’s most ethically and responsibly produced energy to market,” commented Alberta Premier Danielle Smith.

Teachers’ Strike Looms After Contract Rejection

Alberta teachers have voted against a proposed four-year agreement, leaving the Alberta Teachers’ Association (ATA) in a position to strike as early as October 6th. Close to 90 per cent of members who voted declined the province’s most recent offer. Union president Jason Schilling noted that a strike could cause challenges for families but emphasized the need for meaningful progress in education.

The provincial government is preparing support measures in the event of a strike. Parents of students in public, separate or francophone schools would be eligible to receive $150 per week, beginning October 31st. To help maintain student learning, the government has launched a free online toolkit aligned with the K-12 curriculum with resources in core subjects.

Province Expands Community Partnership Program

The Government of Alberta has opened a new intake for the Alberta Community Partnership (ACP) program, providing $13.4 million to support municipalities and Métis Settlements. The ACP promotes intermunicipal cooperation, restructuring, dispute resolution, and leadership development. For 2025, new features include a municipal asset management stream and expanded funding for restructuring, mediation, and cooperative projects.

“Albertans benefit when their communities work together to overcome differences, build partnerships and face challenges. The Alberta Community Partnership helps us build a strong, prosperous province by supporting this collaboration and gives opportunities to future leaders through meaningful internships,” commented Minister of Municipal Affairs, Dan Williams.

Alberta Retinal Program Goes Permanent

Starting October 1st, Alberta will make permanent its retinal treatment program, evolving from the previous RAPID pilot project. The new Alberta Retinal Treatment Program expands eligibility to about 2,000 more Albertans, increases the number of drugs offered, and allows any ophthalmologist in the province to participate. Under the program, patients receive vision-preserving intraocular injections at no cost, regardless of whether they have private or government drug coverage. 

“With more seniors in our province every year, getting timely vision-protecting treatment is more important than ever. This new program builds on the pilot’s success and offers even more benefits for Alberta,” stated Minister of Primary and Preventative Health Services, Adriana LaGrange.