The election of Donald Trump in the United States has implications far beyond that country’s borders – wall or no wall. The President-elect of the global superpower and Canada’s closest trading partner is wading into several policies of significance to the True North, and Alberta in particular. Trump made clear early on in his presidential bid that he was supportive of Keystone XL. He vowed to give the pipeline a green light if elected, though he wanted a ‘better deal’ for the US. For [Read more]
The ripple effect of the carbon tax on Alberta’s homegrown industries
Alberta’s carbon tax will have a stinging effect that will ripple through countless industries across the province, increasing costs every step of the way. Each day, January 2017 inches closer. From individuals and families to charities and schools, from farmers and landscapers to restaurant owners and small brewers – nearly everyone will be impacted. This is the “new Alberta Advantage,” as Alberta’s finance minister declared it. In reality, it’s more like a slap in the face to many of [Read more]
“Mightily suffering” have-provinces need to reform equalization says CTF
Plunging oil prices are forcing governments and families in Alberta and Saskatchewan to keep an eye on every bill. One of those bills may come as a surprise: next year’s equalization costs are going up to $499 per Canadian. Taxpayers in Alberta and Saskatchewan will be paying more, but despite their struggling economies, they won’t be receiving a dime back. The federal government’s financial projections show the total cost of the program will be nearly $17.9 billion next year. Ultimately, [Read more]