February 12, 2008

Dear Editor:

As our Conservative Government celebrates its second anniversary, I can’t help but ask the question: What does this mean for Alberta?

It makes me think of the many positive things that have recently taken place in our region. The first thing that comes to mind is over $160 million in combined federal/provincial infrastructure investment towards many projects all over our riding of Fort McMurray-Athabasca. Also, as a result of our Government’s Fall Economic Statement, Canadians here in Northern Alberta will have more money in their pockets to spend on their priorities. Not only will we feel an immediate tax relief from the 2-percent reduction in the GST, over $1 billion going back to Albertans, but our Government has also increased the basic personal income tax amount from $8929 to $9600, and has reduced the lowest personal income tax rate to 15 per cent from 15.5 per cent retroactive to January 1, 2007.

Other Federal contributions include:

• The Canada Health Transfer which will provide Alberta with $1.8 billion in cash funding;
• Alberta will see over $135 million for the creation of child care spaces and post-secondary education;
• Budget 2007 which provides $52 million for Albertans in labour market training;
• The new Canada ecoTrust for Clean Air and Climate Change which will provide Albertans with almost $156 million to support major GHG-reducing projects;
• New tax incentives which encourage the oil sands industry to invest in clean energy;
• Budget 2007 helps Albertan farmers and fishermen by increasing the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption from $500,000 to $750,000; and
• Our Government will provide $76.3 million of gas tax funding for municipalities in Alberta to help with infrastructure development;
  

On November 5, 2007, Prime Minister Harper visited Fort McMurray to take a first-hand look at the city and surrounding area. We were all honoured to have had Canada’s Prime Minister in our riding, listening to our concerns and discussing solutions to the many needs of Northern Albertans. I, personally, was honoured and proud because it is my job to champion for the priorities of Northern Albertans in Ottawa and to bring our issues to the attention of our Prime Minister. It was very gratifying to be able to show him our beautiful riding, introduce him to some of the incredible people I represent, and know that he was there to listen.

Like the North Star, we are a bright light for others to follow. Alberta has emerged as a shining example in a universe of rapid change and uncertainty and Northern Albertans are not only basking in the light, but also working hard to lead the way for the rest of Canada. As a Member of Parliament, as a Father, and as an Albertan, I am proud of our Government’s accomplishments, intentions, and goals, and I am proud to be working for my family, friends, and all constituents in Northern Alberta. Thank you for this great honour.

Sincerely,
Brian Jean, MP
Fort McMurray – Athabasca